Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has announced a surprise return to competitive football at the age of 46 after signing for Italian third-division club Ravenna FC.
The former Ballon d’Or winner, who retired from club football in 2015 after a spell with Fluminense, is set to begin a new chapter in Italy’s Serie C, more than a decade after stepping away from the professional game.
Ronaldinho said the opportunity arose through his long-standing relationship with Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani, describing the move as a natural decision built on years of friendship.
“We have been friends for many years, so it was something simple and straightforward. We both want Ravenna to succeed, and we share similar ideas about the future of the club,” he said.
The Brazilian legend believes his return can motivate young players to pursue their ambitions and prove that dreams can still be achieved regardless of age.
“I hope this can inspire others to keep believing in their goals and work towards achieving them, just as I did throughout my career,” Ronaldinho added.
Ronaldinho’s arrival has generated worldwide attention for Ravenna, a club based in the Emilia-Romagna region with ambitions of climbing the Italian football pyramid.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan star was unveiled wearing the club’s white jersey, alongside the Ballon d’Or trophy he won in 2005.
Club owner Cipriani described the signing as a personal dream come true, recalling how Ronaldinho’s creativity and flair inspired an entire generation of football fans.
“He inspired me and so many others to fall in love with football because he played the game differently from everyone else,” Cipriani said.
He added that the Brazilian’s presence would significantly boost the club’s visibility and reputation.
“Having Ronaldinho here immediately puts Ravenna on the global football map. The attention he brings is something we could never have achieved otherwise, and we hope it brings excitement and joy to the city,” he said.
Ronaldinho enjoyed a remarkable 17-year professional career, winning major honours with clubs including Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.
Widely regarded as one of the most gifted players of his generation, he won the FIFA World Player of the Year award twice and captured the Ballon d’Or in 2005.
His return to football has sparked excitement among fans worldwide, with many eager to see whether the Brazilian magician can still produce moments of brilliance on the pitch as he embarks on an unlikely comeback in Italy’s third tier.
