Partying was not to blame for Ronaldinho's Barcelona decline, says Xavi

Ronaldinho's transfer to Barcelona in 2003 completely transformed the fortunes of the Catalan giants. Fans still fondly remember his iconic debut goal against Sevilla—a breathtaking solo run capped by a thunderous long-range strike that rattled in off the crossbar. From that unforgettable moment on, the Brazilian magician instantly captured the hearts of the city's entire footballing community. 

The bond between the Camp Nou faithful and the Brazilian was special from day one. Barca's No. 10 repaid their love with dazzling footwork, magical assists, sensational goals, and his trademark infectious smile. The generational fan favourite spearheaded the Blaugrana's march to European glory, lifting the club's second Champions League trophy in Paris. Yet, while many expected that dominance to endure, his golden era at the top ended sooner than anticipated.

Former midfielder and club legend Xavi Hernandez, who was a cornerstone of that successful side and witnessed the Brazilian's ascent firsthand, recently reflected on that period.

Xavi recalled the moment the Brazilian superstar first stepped foot into the dressing room: "Ronaldinho helped us tremendously. I clearly remember what I thought at the time: now that we have this player, we are much closer to winning, because we have the best footballer in the world at this moment."

The legendary Spanish playmaker also highlighted the psychological impact the Brazilian had across the entire club: "He changed our mindset. I always remember him smiling, making his trademark hand gesture. Everyone at Barcelona became enthusiastic again, and the football world couldn't stop talking about what Ronaldinho was producing on the pitch. We started playing at a completely different level with him by our side."

When asked whether persistent rumours surrounding Ronaldinho's lively nightlife and partying triggered his decline, Xavi dismissed the talk: "I believe it was down to his mentality and mindset. He won absolutely everything—league titles, the Champions League, the Ballon d'Or. After that, it was as if he said to himself: 'That's it, my job is done.' It was entirely a matter of mentality, not the partying."

Ronaldinho eventually left Barcelona in 2008 to complete a move to AC Milan.