Former Brazil and Barcelona superstar Ronaldinho's mother, Miguelina Elói Assis dos Santos has passed away in Brazil at the age of 71 over the weekend due to complications arising from Covid-19. She had contracted the virus in December last year but could not survive, with reports confirming her death on Sunday, February 21, 2021. Miguelina was hospitalised in Me de Dues Hospital in their hometown of Porto Alegre in December last year.
Prior to Christmas, the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year had disclosed that his mother was hospitalised. "Dear friends, my mother has covid-19 and we are fighting so that she recovers soon,” the legendary Brazilian said. “She is in intensive care, receiving the best possible treatment. I would like to thank everyone in advance for all of the positive energy you always send. With love. Stay strong Mum.”
His former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi was one of the first few to lend support to the football icon. Messi took to Instagram to post a touching message for Ronaldinho.
Messi wrote, 'Ronnie, I have no words. I can't believe it. Just sending you a lot of strength and a big hug for you and the whole family. I'm very sorry. Rest in peace."
Brazil and PSG star Neymar too shared his sympathies for Ronaldinho, messaging: "Stay strong Roni... I am very sorry."
Two of Ronaldinho's former clubs, Atletico Mineiro and Paris Saint-Germain, have also paid tribute.
Clube está de luto pela morte de dona Miguelina: https://t.co/5QAiPYpLagÉ com enorme tristeza, que o Clube Atlético Mineiro recebe a notícia do falecimento de Dona Miguelina, mãe de @10Ronaldinho. pic.twitter.com/8pEnMuFfkP— Atlético 😷 (@Atletico) February 21, 2021
Paris Saint-Germain extends its deepest condolences to Ronaldinho and his brother Roberto following the death of their mother. 🙏All our support in this moment filled with sadness.❤️💙 @10Ronaldinho pic.twitter.com/0ZemrJdigS— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 21, 2021
The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner claimed a World Cup in 2002 and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006. He also played for Gremio, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, Flamengo, Atletico Mineiro, Queretaro and Fluminense. For Brazil Ronaldinho has 33 goals in 97 caps, and won the 2002 World Cup.