Ronaldinho Exclusion: "The World Cup Itself Will Suffer"

In what has been dubbed the worst possible decision by coach Carlos Dunga when he left out two-time World Footballer of The Year from his 23-man squad.

CEO of the Local Organising Committee, Danny Jordaan said: "I sometimes think these coaches are imbued in the belief they are gods and are out to prove they can can do anything they wish, right or wrong. They become blinded by this sense of power."

With so much expectation and excitement surrounding the presence of "big name" players locals feel it's an insult to have left out someone with the quality and ability like Ronaldinho.

Jordaan went on further, "Ronaldinho, it must be said, is a soccer genius with talents enjoyed by few in the game, both past and present, and anyone with an insight into the sport must recognise this. Now that he has recovered from a slump of form, it should have been accepted by someone of Dunga's experience to select him as a matter of course."

No matter whether you agree or disagree regarding his potential currently and his experience in previous competitions, you need to understand that some players are just made for the big event and sometimes you need them around in order to soak some of the attention whilst those who are not accustomed to it can relax.

It's simple, like the example of England, David Beckham is said to be joining the team to attract the attention while the team goes on with it's work. Some might feel why waste your time including a player for that purpose, well in the case of Ronaldinho you would be including him for his footballing attributes with the rest just a bonus.

"Would any of the other 31 World Cup nations even have given a thought to not including a Ronaldinho in their squads had they been afforded the chance," asked Jordaan, "certainly not."

Other major exclusions at the World Cup also ask questions regarding the success of the World Cup in terms of attracting the ordinary man on the street with limited affection for the sport.

Many will attend a game or two just as part of the celebration to witness great a player at an International event, it's therefore necessary for big stars to be in display and although there will be the likes of Messi, Tevez, Ronaldo etc. For many Ronaldinho is one of the most "iconic" figures of Brasilian football in terms of recent years, especially for the younger generation.

"Now the World Cup itself will suffer," lamented Jordaan, "and it's all rather sad and unfortunate."

Nevertheless the celebrations will continue in South Africa as there are just under 30 days left for the kick-off at Soccer City on the 11 June when Mexico will face the host.

Other notable absentees from the respective squads: Patrick Viera, Karim Benzema, Samir Nasri, Ronaldo (Brasil), Ruud van Nistelrooy, Paul Scholes, David Beckham (injured), Charlie Davies (injured), Francisco Totti, Alessandro Del Piero.