New AC Milan playmaker Ronaldinho has described himself as "reborn" following his long-awaited move from Barcelona.

The 28-year-old, who is currently in Singapore with the Brazil squad preparing for the Olympic Games, struggled for form last season with injury and fitness problems.

But the former world player of the year told Gazzetta dello Sport: "Coming to Italy and being able to play for Milan is making me feel reborn. I feel great in my new city."

He continued: "I'm working well. I've followed a personalised programme with a proper diet, and I am truly better.

"I think I'm very close to being 100% physically and I'm progressing day after day. By August 7 and the start of the Olympics I'll be in peak shape."

The Beijing tournament will be the second time Ronaldinho has appeared at an Olympics.

Had he stayed at Barcelona, the Catalan club revealed they would have been reluctant to allow him to take part in the Games, and the forward admitted he was extremely grateful to his new club for allowing him to go.

"Above all I want to thank (coach Carlo) Ancelotti and Milan for allowing me to go with Brazil to Beijing.

"I'm a very lucky player because few people get the chance to play two Olympic tournaments. I was at Sydney and now I'm going again.

"If we win it will be a dream come true."