After the 2002 World Cup, Ronaldinho Started Throwing Wild Parties; To This Day, He Doesn't Mention Luis Fernandez's Name

The Netflix documentary "Ronaldinho: The One and Only" offers an intimate look into the career of the Brazilian football wizard. Across three episodes, the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner shares his story, both on and off the pitch. One segment of the film focuses on the early European chapter of the football icon's career – his two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain at the turn of the century.

Laurent Perpère, the former PSG chairman, recalls: "When Ronaldinho arrived in Europe, he was still very childlike, discovering the world, it was quite touching. But I remember one time he asked us, 'Do I have enough money to buy a refrigerator?'" The Brazilian, for his part, admits he holds excellent memories of Perpère: "He was like a father figure to me. I have many wonderful things to say about him." He then adds with a laugh: "About the other one, I have nothing to say."

The 'other one' is former French international Luis Fernandez, who coached Dinho at the Parc des Princes. Fernandez recounts how it became impossible to control the superstar after Brazil's triumph at the 2002 World Cup. "It just got worse and worse. People connected to Paris nightlife would tell me he was out partying the night before matches. And that he'd return at six or seven in the morning, going to bed at dawn," the former PSG manager revealed. In 2003, Barcelona acquired the Brazilian ace for €30 million.

"Barça's resurgence began with him! We won the Champions League in 2006, Lionel Messi emerged – Ronaldinho played a pivotal role," states Barcelona president Joan Laporta in the film. Naturally, the Argentine maestro also shares his thoughts: "He was the leader in the dressing room. The way he treated me from day one made things easy. He allowed me to relax and enjoy those moments. I will always be grateful to him; Ronaldinho holds a special place in my heart."