Ronaldo makes City claim

Brazil ace battling back to full fitness

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 29th September 2008

Ronaldo Brazil striker AC Milan

Ronaldo: Held taks with Blues

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Brazilian superstar Ronaldo claims there is still a possibility he could join Manchester City.

The 32-year-old is available as a free agent after being released by AC Milan at the end of last season.

The former World Player of the Year is currently back in his homeland continuing his rehabilitation from a knee operation he underwent in February.

He is training with Flamengo, and admits a deal may materialise at the Maracana, but is open to further discussions with ambitious City.

"I have talked with Manchester City representatives and I know the doors there will be opened when I get my best shape," Ronaldo told Folha de Sao Paulo.

"But I dream about playing for Flamengo. Flamengo are in my heart. I think I will take a decision then."

The South American legend admits he arrived at Flamengo overweight, ballooning to over 15 stone, but is confident that he can rediscover the form which made him the most feared forward in world football.

Ambition

He also remains optimistic of representing his country at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, despite having not featured for Brazil since 2006.

"I really want to be there, it would be very nice," he added.

"But first I have to recover properly.

"I am working hard to return to my old self and I do it because I love football.

"I could stay at home, playing with my friends, but I love everything that has to do with a match.

"I like seeing the fans, the motivation, feeling the pressure of the tournament.

"When I am exhausted after a training session, I always think someone is going to pay for all this effort. I believe the defenders are going to pay."