Ronaldinho: Heading to Beijing

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AC Milan have confirmed that they will allow new signing Ronaldinho to represent Brazil at this summer's Olympics in China.

The Rossoneri have stated that star playmaker Kaka will not be released to participate in the Beijing Games, but have taken a different stance with their latest signing.

But compatriot Ronaldinho, who has moved to the San Siro in a £14.5million deal from Barcelona, will be allowed to represent his country.

The differing stance has been taken as Barca had already agreed that the World Cup winner could travel to China, and Milan will not go back on that arrangement.

Respect

Vice-president Adriano Galliani said: "These were his previous engagements and we will respect them.

"Had he already been a Milan player he wouldn't have gone to the Olympics. But he will become our player next week, and so we will let him go."

Ronaldinho, meanwhile, could not hide his delight after arriving in Italy following successful talks between the two clubs over his future.

He said: "I'm really happy to arrive at Milan and I hope to be able to bring happiness to everyone. I'm pleased to find many Brazilians, but also the many champions who wear the Milan jersey."

Environment

And coach Carlo Ancelotti is confident that the talented playmaker can regain the form which saw him crowned World Player of the Year.

He said: "We want to be competitive on each front. Ronaldinho brings a lot of enthusiasm and that is a fundamental thing for the start of every season.

"A few years ago he was considered the world's strongest player and here he will find the right environment to relaunch himself."