Author: Soorya G
Almost two decades after leaving Cruzeiro, Rivaldo analyzed his brief spell in Minas Gerais and said that he could have left a stronger mark on the club. In 2004, the former player played just 11 games in the blue and white shirt. During his time there, he scored two goals and won the championship of the state of Minas Gerais that season.
Following the termination of his contract with Milan, Rivaldo arrived at Cruzeiro to form a renowned duo with Alex, who had been instrumental in the club’s historic triumph. Despite high expectations, the Pernambuco native failed to live up to them and felt very sorry for the departure of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo. In an interview last week, Rivaldo spoke about his time at Cruzeiro.
“I don’t regret it because Luxemburgo hired me. I arrived on a Saturday and the next day we played Atlético Mineiro. Luxa always called me to sign me, to take me to his teams. He was someone I trusted a lot. Suddenly, I arrived there on a Saturday, and President Alvimar Perrella spoke to the whole group, saying that Luxemburgo had left” he recalls.
“I was very sad about the situation and I had to make this decision. Knowing that I was at a great club like Cruzeiro, having a very good season and making history at Cruzeiro, or being loyal to the coach. I chose to be loyal to the coach and I can’t regret it, because I had to make that decision. If he had stayed, I would have made history at Cruzeiro. It would have been better for me, because I believe I could have made history” he concluded.
This reflection by Rivaldo offers a glimpse into the complex and often unpredictable world of professional soccer. Despite his relatively short spell at Cruzeiro, Rivaldo’s presence undoubtedly left an impression on the club and its fans. His achievements in soccer, including winning the FIFA World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and his illustrious club career, ensure that he remains a legendary figure in the world of soccer.