Wednesday, Sep 28, 2016

Dubai: Former Brazil striker Ronaldinho will be in Dubai to visit his soccer academy in the Duplays-managed Koora Dome at Al Wasl Club on Saturday.

The 36-year-old formed the Ronaldinho Soccer Academy (RSA) to hone the region’s next generation of talent. On his latest trip he will offer junior footballers advice before enjoying a kickabout.

“I am very excited to be returning to Dubai, a city I have visited many times before as both a player and a holidaymaker,” said the former Paris Saint Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan star.

“This academy is part of the next stage of my career and represents a true labour of love — I can think of nothing better than to pass on my experience to the next generation of talented footballers growing up in Dubai, the UAE and beyond.”

Part of the Brazilian team that won the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea, Ronaldinho also took home the FIFA Ballon d’Or (World Player of the Year) in 2004 and 2005. During his time with Barcelona he won two La Liga titles and the Uefa Champions League.

RSA, which opened in Dubai earlier this year as the first-of-its-kind in the region, is mentored by Ronaldinho-approved qualified coaches.

As part of Duplays regional strategy to encourage more sport’s participation in the region, the company plans to expand the academy and its community programmes into Saudi Arabia, with the first expected to open in Jeddah in February. For more information visit: https://ronaldinhoacademy.playpass.com/

Staff Report

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