Ronaldinho to star in Sunderland legends match at Stadium of Light | OneFootball

Brazil legend Ronaldinho will headline a star-studded legends match at the Stadium of Light this summer, fronting a Ronaldinho & Friends side.

According to Sunderland Echo, the team will face a UK Icons line-up led by former Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe on Monday 25 May, kick-off 5pm. The exhibition comes a day after Sunderland conclude their Premier League campaign at home to Chelsea.

Confirmed names alongside Ronaldinho include ex-Sunderland forward Djibril Cissé, World Cup winner Kléberson, goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes, former Manchester United full-backs Fábio and Rafael, plus Fernando and Anderson.

Tickets are on sale via the club’s website, with adult prices from £25 and concessions from £20. Hospitality includes access to Quinn’s Sports Bar at £100 and executive boxes at £1,500 for 10 guests. Stadium parking costs £10.

Widely regarded as one of the game’s greats, Ronaldinho won the Ballon d’Or and was twice FIFA World Player of the Year. His glittering career spanned Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, and he helped Brazil win the 2002 World Cup.

Sunderland Chief Business Officer David Bruce welcomed a marquee occasion for a venue renowned for big events, and said it will showcase the city to a global audience. Chief Curator Marcel Nalyan said Ronaldinho was eager to return to the UK and embraced Wearside’s fans and stadium.

Source: Sunderland Echo