Brazil legend Ronaldo ponders comeback

Ronaldo, who hasn’t played professionally since 2011, recently became part-owner of the side which competes in the 11-team league which is part of the feeder system for Major League Soccer (MLS).

The former Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona star told Sports Illustrated that he plans to get in better shape and might suit up as a reserve player.

“I will try to play some games,” he said. “This year I want to train a lot. The last three years I didn’t because I was too busy in other stuff.

“Maybe if we get to the final and I’m feeling good, why not? I will put my name in the NASL as an option.”

Ronaldo was speaking in his first interview since joining the Strikers’ ownership group.

“I can’t be a manager, because I think it’s too tough managing 30 players thinking in different ways,” he said.

“I think being an owner is a good way to teach our players the way I won.

“It’s a new challenge for me. I’ve been working a lot in different things. Last year I was involved in the World Cup as a member of the organizing board, and I was also commentating matches during the World Cup for TV Globo. And now it’s a great opportunity to manage as an owner of a great team.

“The Fort Lauderdale Strikers is a team with history, tradition. Soccer in America is growing, so I think it’s a great opportunity.”

The Strikers reached the NASL final last season where they lost to San Antonio.

The NASL, which has no connection to the original North American Soccer League, is in between the MLS and the third division USL Pro league. There is no promotion and relegation between the three American leagues- AFP