Robinho, Dunga's star forward for the Brazilian national soccer team, offered his forgiveness on Wednesday to Pele after receiving accusations of drug use.
During the national team's practice in Teresopolis, Rio de Janeiro, Robinho decided to forgive Pele after the soccer legend insinuated that Robinho used drugs.
Despite threats of suing Pele over damages to his image, Robinho announced on Wednesday during the Brazilian national team's press conference that his beef with Pele is over.
Additionally, Robinho took the opportunity to celebrate the return of Ronaldo to the world of soccer. Robinho referred to Ronaldo as the "president."
"Pele said what he said, but I imagine that he expressed himself poorly. I have never had a problem with drugs. If I did have a problem with drugs, I would not be a part of Brazil's national team. Everything has been resolved and the accusations nolonger bother me. I am now focused on our game against Ecuador," said the 25-year-old Robinho.
Last week, Pele used Robinho's name in a statement claiming that a few players had tainted the soccer world with the use of illicit drugs.
Pele said on Wednesday that he had the utmost respect for Robinho and did not intend to harm his image. He claimed that the information he received was incorrect and regretted saying any harmful things against Robinho.
(Xinhua News Agency March 26, 2009)