Barcelona have played down reports claiming Ronaldinho could leave, amid speculation in Spain they are already making plans for life without the Brazilian.
Spanish media reports suggest Barca are willing to offload the former World Player of the Year, but Barca president Joan Laporta claims Ronaldinho is going nowhere.
“There is no divorce between Barcelona and Ronaldinho,” said club president Laporta. “We hope Ronaldinho will be back as soon as possible.
“At the moment he is suffering some pain and we have to respect that. While he has got this pain we can’t count on him.”
Laporta claims Ronaldinho is still part of coach Frank Rijkaard’s plans, although until he is fully fit he will not be selected.
“The coach would like to have Ronaldinho at his disposal, but if that isn’t possible we will just have to carry on without him,” he said.
“Right now we have to look to the team rather than any individuals. The players that aren’t playing should do all they can to recover and be available for the coach.
“At this stage of the season the strength of the whole team is the most important thing.”
