FOCUS Milan’s biggest regret: Simone Verdi, the Italian Ronaldinho

AC Milan may be all high and mighty right now, but there’s one Italian name Adriano Galliani wishes he could add to his AC Milan teamsheet: that of Simone Verdi. 

 

The Bologna midfielder has been grabbing headlines for weeks now with his positive displays, smashing in spectacular goals against Sampdoria and Sassuolo.

 

What isn’t often mentioned is that the 24-year-old used to play for Milan’s youth setup, before beginning a long journey which took him to Juve Stabia, Empoli, Eibar and Carpi. Believed by some to have lost his way, the midfielder toughened up during his travels, learning that he needed to give 110% if he was going to survive, and that his indisputable class wasn’t going to be enough.

 

Remembered in Milan for pulling off Ronaldinho-like magic, Verdinho made his Rossoneri debut aged 17 against Novara in the 2011 Coppa Italia.

 

Now an untouchable cog in Roberto Donadoni’s Bologna, Verdi is now seen as a potential surprise inclusion by Italy Coach Giampiero Ventura, something the gaffer has actually admitted. Beyond that, the youngster leads a calm life, often being picked up by his brother and parents after training and enjoying a quiet life outside of football.

 

Who knows how much this quiet Ronaldinho will fetch if he keeps this up?

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Ronaldinho Has Offers From England and No Plans to Retire

Brazil legend Ronaldinho has offers on the table from English clubs and is not considering retiring just yet according to his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira who acts as his agent.

The 35-year-old recently left Fluminense, prompting questions of whether 'Dinho was ready to finally hang up his boots.

His brother, however, has dismissed such talk, revealing that the Barcelona icon's body is 'in perfect condition' and that his competitive attitude will ensure he keeps playing football.

"I have had more than one call from England," he said according to The Sun (via ​Joe.co.uk). "My brother is a competitor. He loves to win. That is what people do not realise about him.

"He still wants to play. He has never had serious injuries; his body is in perfect condition.

"I think he has three or four years left to him, maybe more."

While technically a free agent at the moment, Ronaldinho is set to take the pitch for Fluminense once more as the club take part in the Florida Cup this month.

Fluminense president Peter Siemsen ​confirmed the news last month while speaking to Radio Tupi.

He said: "Ronaldinho and Fluminense maintain a great respect for each other. And for the American market is very attractive brand of player."