Ronaldino insists he will 'NEVER abandon Brazilian football' despite criticism

Ronaldinho has back-tracked on his previous shocking criticism of Brazil's national team that saw him state he would no longer be watching the team in the Copa America by revealing the real reason for his comments.

The Brazil legend stunned fans and players by hitting out at the team in a strongly-worded social media statement where he claimed the current squad is 'one of the worst teams in recent years has no respectable leaders and only average players for the majority.'

Ronaldinho scored 33 goals in 99 international appearances between 1999 and 2013 and is a Brazil icon after winning the World Cup in 2002.

His remarks didn't go down well with Brazil's current crop of stars who drew 1-1 with USA on Thursday, with Barcelona winger Raphinha stating: 'I was surprised and I don't agree with his statement'.

However, a full explanation for Ronaldinho's harsh words has now been given as the 44-year-old posted an update to his 76m Instagram followers stating he 'would never abandon Brazilian football' and that his original criticism was actually comments from fans that he was using in a marketing campaign to encourage more support for the national team.

Clarifying his unwavering support for Brazil, Ronaldinho said: 'I would never abandon Brazilian football, ever. And I'd never say those things you see...

'Actually, these words came from real Brazilian fans, they are real comments that I saw on the internet.

'Imagine listening to these messages before you play? Nope, motivation goes down...fan support makes a huge difference to the player. I know what I'm talking about.

'Guys what our boys need is support at this time. The more confidenceweshow, the more confidence they will have on the field.

'That's why I joined Rexona in this movement to encourage the Cheer That Doesn't Quit. We are asking everyone to send message of support and confidence in CONMEBOL Copa America. Let's all give magical support of the Brazilian fan.'

The clarification of his original comments will be a welcome boost to the Brazil squad who feared they were being ditched by one of their former stars.

However, despite it's unusual approach, the marketing strategy clearly worked as Ronaldinho's initial criticism went viral and spread around various media outlets around the world.

There was fury from Brazil supporters on Friday, but that is now likely to be quelled as Ronaldinho changed his approach to try and garner more support for Dorival Junior's side.