MADRID, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- Toure Yaya, an Cote d'Iovire soccer player at Spanish soccer club Barcelona, told Sunday media of his surprise that Barcelona colleague Brazil's Ronaldinho, had become the media's whipping boy.

"It has surprised me. It seems he has become the object of criticism for media and journalists. But he is a magnificent player and I believe all this will pass," Yaya said.

Spanish media have focused on Ronaldinho's lackluster performance on the pitch, his Friday injury and a rumoured drinking session 48 hours before a third-round match against local league rival Osasuna.

Ronaldinho, "has minor muscular problems. I believe he will be in shape to play very quickly," said Yaya.

Yaya, signed to Barcelona from French league team Monaco, has been on of the team's best performing players since the start of the season.