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

Brazil legend Ronaldinho will headline a star-studded legends match at the Stadium of Light on Monday 25 May, kick-off 5pm, against a UK Icons side led by Jermain Defoe.

Sunderland Echo reports that the exhibition comes a day after Sunderland finish their Premier League season at home to Chelsea.

Ronaldinho will front a Ronaldinho & Friends team. Confirmed supporting cast includes 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 official website, adults 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 club career spanned Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, and he helped Brazil win the 2002 World Cup. He won 97 caps, scored 33 goals and played at two World Cups.

Sunderland chief business officer David Bruce said hosting the occasion is a privilege and a chance to showcase the city, adding that the Stadium of Light thrives on big events. Marcel Nalyan, curator of Ronaldinho & Friends, said the player was eager to return to the UK and embraced the chance to play on Wearside.

Source: Sunderland Echo