"This competition gave me my breakthrough for the senior national team." This is just one of the many reasons why the FIFA Confederations Cup holds such a special place in Ronaldinho's heart.

It is worth pointing out, however, that his fondest memories relate not to this first taste of the Confederations Cup, at Mexico 1999, but rather to the last of the three editions he featured in, when he got to experience "being crowned champions as captain and the pleasure of lifting that trophy". That came at Germany 2005, where Brazil defeated Argentina 4-1 in the final, with the flamboyant forward on the scoresheet: "That was a momentous game," he reminisced, flashing his trademark smile.

Watch this video to find out all about Ronaldinho's soft spot for the Tournament of Champions – a competition which, in his words, "gets you in the mood for the World Cup".