Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho is set for a sensational return to professional football at the age of 46, after agreeing to join Italian Serie C side Ravenna FC.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan star has not played a competitive professional match since 2015, when he featured for Brazilian club Fluminense. His planned comeback therefore comes 11 years after his last professional appearance.
The return will also mark another chapter in Ronaldinho’s relationship with Italian football, having previously played for AC Milan between 2008 and 2011.
Ronaldinho, a 2002 World Cup winner, has also joined the ownership group at Ravenna as the club pursues an ambitious project to rebuild its fortunes, attract investment and raise its international profile.
There had initially been uncertainty over whether the Brazilian would actually play competitive football for the club. However, Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani has confirmed that Ronaldinho will feature in at least one Serie C match.
Cipriani said the arrangement was not simply a promotional exercise, with the former world superstar expected to make an appearance in a home league fixture.
The exact date of Ronaldinho’s return has not yet been announced, and he is not expected to feature when Ravenna opens its new season against Reggiana.
Beyond his appearance on the pitch, Ronaldinho is also expected to play a prominent role in promoting Ravenna and its wider football project.
Reacting to his return, the Brazilian expressed excitement about beginning another chapter in his football journey.
“I cannot wait to dance with the ball,” Ronaldinho said.
He added that football had always been a source of joy for him and that he was looking forward to bringing that spirit to Ravenna.
The announcement has generated major excitement among Ravenna supporters, with the club hoping Ronaldinho’s presence will attract more fans, investors and international attention.
At 46, one of football’s most recognisable and entertaining stars is now preparing to lace up his boots once again, more than a decade after his last competitive professional appearance.
