As Atlético Mineiro beat Palmeiras 3-0 on Sunday night, for once, it was former Barcelona star Ronaldinho who had to take a back-seat.
A 3-0 win for the hosts kept Atlético’s title-hopes alive, but it was the performance of attacking midfielder Bernard, just a few days after his 20th birthday, that grabbed all the headlines.
Bernard, who scored a wonderful brace, has been one of the undisputed stars of the 2012 season, with his six goals and five assists putting him amongst the top contributors in the league.
Ronaldinho, who has formed a fluid partnership with the youngster in midfield, believes that Brazilian football is witnessing the birth of yet another star.
Asked about his team-mate’s performance post-match, Ronaldinho said: “He is a big talent. It’s a pleasure to share in the moment when another star is born.
“I am happy and I hope he continues in this manner for many, many years.”
When asked for his opinion on Ronaldinho’s glowing praise, Bernard responded: “I am very happy with this. To hear this from someone who I watched play.
“I am a fan of Ronaldinho even now, for everything he has done and what he is doing at Atlético.
“It’s important to receive praise from a player like him. I am trying to help him as best I can as we try to return to the top of the table. It will be difficult, but we will be there until the end.”
