Brazilian forward Ronaldinho paid the price for his off-field lifestyle at Barcelona, according to former team-mate Xavi.

"Ronie has always led the same sort of lifestyle," the Spain midfielder told Marca in an interview published yesterday. "He always told us: 'that's the way I am'.

"When you lead that sort of life you have to understand that when your level drops then the knives will be out. He is like that, he likes going out and enjoying life.

"He was full of life ever since he arrived and that's how he won two leagues and a Champions League."

Despite his successes in his first three seasons at the club, Ronaldinho attracted heavy criticism when his performances dropped off and his fitness flagged.

Throughout last season there were reports that Barca wanted to sell him off and the 28-year-old finally moved to Milan for a fee up to 25 million euros ($37.27 million) in July.

"He has his own private life that should not be interfered with, but it is true that that private life also affects his sporting performances," said Xavi.

"Ronie went from being an idol for all Barcelona fans to being jeered and criticised and that hurts anyone."