Lionel Messi has sent Ronaldinho a touching message via Instagram after his former Barcelona team mate’s mother died at the age of 71.
Miguelina Elói Assis dos Santos reportedly died in Brazil over the weekend due to complications arising from Covid-19, according to local media and forwarded by AS and Sun.
Miguelina was admitted to Mãe de Deus Hospital in Porto Alegre in December after contracting the coronavirus but has now died.
Ronaldinho previously revealed that his mother had been hospitalized just before Christmas.
“My friends, my mother has COVID-19 and we are fighting for her to recover quickly,” said the legendary Brazilian. “She is in intensive care, receiving the best possible care. I want to thank everyone in advance for all the positive energy you always send me. With love. Stay strong Mom.”
Atletico Mineiro, the Brazilian club where Ronaldinho played between 2012-2014, expressed his condolences following the news of Miguelina’s passing.
“[The] the club mourns the death of Dona Miguelina, “read the statement.
“It is with great sadness that Clube Atlético Mineiro receives the news of the death of Dona Miguelina, mother of @ 10Ronaldinho.
“The Atleticana family are in mourning and share moments of sadness with their idol.
“May God welcome you with open arms and comfort our eternal ace hearts. Rest in peace, Dona Miguelina.”

Meanwhile, Messi posted the following message to his old friend on Instagram: “Ronnie, I have no words, I can’t believe it.
“Just sending you lots of strength and a big hug for you and your family. I’m so sorry, RIP. “

(Translation per @Roy)
Ronaldinho played an important role in Messi’s early years as a professional footballer.
He welcomed Messi with open arms and even told the media that the Argentine was a better footballer than he was in 2005-06.

Messi was still a teenager at the time, but Ronaldinho was well aware that his South American counterpart was heading for greatness.
They have remained close ever since, despite the fact Ronaldinho left Barca in 2008, and Messi is clearly very saddened by this dire news.