Former Barcelona assistant coach Henk ten Cate believes that Ronaldinho was a good example for Lionel Messi during the early stages of the Argentine’s career.
The Brazilian forward spent five years at Camp Nou and won numerous titles with the Blaugrana, including two La Liga titles and one Champions League trophy.
Ronaldinho also won two FIFA World Player of the Year awards whilst at Barça, but received his fair share of criticism for his behaviour toward the end of his career in Spain.
However, Ten Cate, who was assistant to Frank Rijkaard, believes he taught Messi what to do on the field of play, and how not to act off it.
The Dutchman told Voetbal International: “Ronaldinho was a good example for Messi for what to do and what not to do.
“The Brazilians, like Ronaldinho and Deco, welcomed him with open arms when he became part of the first team.”
Messi claimed his record-breaking fourth consecutive FIFA Ballon d’Or award on Monday, ahead of team-mate Andres Iniesta and Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo.
Source: Goal.com
