Fans took banner saying ‘goodbye’ to Ronaldoreproduction
Published 04/28/2024 21:22
Rio – Cruzeiro’s victory over Vitória, this Sunday (28), at Mineirão, in the 4th round of the Brasileirão, was marked by the Cruzeiro fans saying goodbye to Ronaldo. O Fenômeno forwarded the sale of SAF to businessman Pedro Lourenço, founder and owner of the “Supermercados BH” chain.
In the game against Vitória, Cruzeiro fans carried banners with the phrases “Bye Ronaldo” and “Thank you Pedrinho”. Since last year, the Fenômeno has been the target of criticism from the fans. In recent weeks, he even had a flag burned. In addition to banners, bags from “Supermercados BH” were taken.
Criticism of the Phenomenon is due to Cruzeiro’s lack of competitiveness in national competitions. Raposa returned to the elite of Brazilian football under Ronaldo’s management, but had a lackluster year in 2023. The team does not have big stars. On the other hand, the club is organized and has debts under control.
Meet Pedro Lourenço
Pedro Lourenço is an old acquaintance of Cruzeiro. The businessman, who is from Cruzeiro, has invested in the club since the management of the Perrella brothers, helping with loans, signings, financial contributions and sponsorships. He funded renovations to modernize Toca da Raposa II even during Ronaldo’s SAF.
Last year, Pedro Lourenço contributed R$100 million in debentures. The deal gave the businessman the possibility of transforming the amount invested into 20% of the shares in the future. Now, he is in advanced talks to become majority partner and acquire Ronaldo’s percentage (90%).
Ronaldo bought 90% of the shares in SAF do Cruzeiro in December 2021 for R$400 million. At a party last year, Fenômeno “anticipated” the sale to businessman Pedro Lourenço. In a joking tone, the former player said that he wouldn’t “stay forever” and that he would sell it to Pedrinho.
