Blackburn's faint hopes of signing Ronaldinho are finally over after the Brazilian signed for Flamengo.
Brazilian rejects Premier League chance with Blackburn
Blackburn Rovers' faint hopes of signing Ronaldinho are finally over after the Brazilian signed a contract with Flamengo.
Ronaldinho had been offered the chance to move to the Premier League with Blackburn after AC Milan decided to part company with the 30-year-old this month.
However, Rovers were always outsiders to capture the playmaker and Ronaldinho was widely expected to return to his native Brazil.
Gremio were initially considered the favourites to sign Ronaldinho and Palmeiras also showed an interest, but the player has opted to join Flamengo.
Ronaldinho, who also played for Paris St Germain and Barcelona in Europe before returning to his native South America, has signed for Flamengo until 2014.
Wisdom
Club president Patricia Amorim told the club's official website: "We are pleased to announce the hiring of Ronaldinho for the next four years.
"I thank the board for the discretion and wisdom throughout the negotiations.
"This project started from the first day I got the presidency.
"I thank the legal department to (head coach Wanderley) Luxemburgo and especially the fans of Flamengo."
