Ronaldinho released from Paraguay prison after five months

Ronaldinho Gaucho, former Barcelona midfielder, has been released by a Paraguayan judge after spending five months in detention over a forged passport.

The ex-Brazilian attacking midfielder was arrested on March 6, for attempting to enter the South American country with a fake passport.

He was apprehended alongside Roberto Assis, his brother who doubles as his business manager.

After spending a month behind bars, Gustavo Amarilla, the judge, had granted the duo permission to move into the Palmaroga hotel in Asuncion, where they were detained for another four months.

Reuters reported that Amarilla agreed to a “conditional suspension” of charges, which cleared the former Barcelona player of any responsibility for the crime.

“The precautionary measure of arrest is lifted. There are no more restrictions placed by Paraguayan justice,” Amarilla told the court on Monday.

The brothers were also asked to pay $200,000 (£153,000) in damages.

The Brazilian legend, who celebrated his 40th birthday behind bars, is expected to leave Paraguay on Tuesday, according to ESPN.

Ronaldinho was named FIFA world player of the year in 2004 and 2005.

He won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002. He also won the Champions League and two La Liga titles with Barcelona, as well as playing for Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan.