Brazilian striker Ronaldo (R) embraces Corinthians President Andres Sanchez during his official presentation in Sao Paulo December 12, 2008. Ronaldo, who has recovered from a serious knee injury he sustained in February at AC Milan, has agreed terms with Brazil's second most popular club.
RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 12 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian soccer star Ronaldo arrived on Friday to officially present himself to the administration and fans of the Corinthians soccer club.
During the press conference at the team's facilities, the forward declared that his career is not yet over and that he has great expectations at Corinthians.
Brazilian striker Ronaldo is helped by models to put on a Corinthians club jersey in Sao Paulo December 12, 2008. Ronaldo, who has recovered from a serious knee injury he sustained in February at AC Milan, has agreed terms with Brazil's second most popular club.
Ronaldo declared that his main motivation in brining him back to Brazil was his proximity to his family. Coincidentally, Ronaldo's son is a huge Corinthians fan. The athlete is yet to seta date for his officially return to the sport.
"Clearly, I did not die within the soccer world. I will prove this on the field. However, I am only going to return to play whenI am ready. I hope that my return will be as soon as possible so Ican prove myself on the field," said Ronaldo.
"I want to show the world that I am able to overcome yet another difficult obstacle," added he.
Immediately after the press conference, Ronaldo made his debut to the Corinthians' fans. Wearing his new jersey, Ronaldo was applauded by more than 6,000 paying fans.
The athlete was welcomed by fireworks, streamers and the roar of a hopeful crowd. The team is counting on Ronaldo to make 2009 phenomenal, playing with Ronaldo's nickname as the "phenomenon".
Ronaldo also hopes to make a strong comeback, calling the attention of Dunga, the Brazilian national soccer team's head coach. He has already made his wish clear that he wants to play for Brazil in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
By doing so, Ronaldo will have made the most appearances by anyBrazilian in the World Cup.