Brazilian legend Ronaldinho comes out of retirement and moves to the Italian club Ravenna FC
Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho is set to return to competitive football after more than a decade away from the professional game, with the 46-year-old set to suit up for Ravenna FC in Italy’s third division.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan star will return to Ravenna in their Serie C derby against Forli on November 15. The club confirmed the date in October, ending months of speculation over whether the Brazilian would actually feature on the pitch after joining the club earlier this year.
Ronaldinho’s return is particularly special as he will be involved with Ravenna in two capacities: as a player and as a shareholder. The Brazilian signed for the Italian club in June and subsequently acquired a stake in the team owned by his friend Ignazio Cipriani.
Also read: Manchester United and Mauricio Pochettino: Has the moment finally arrived?
The comeback will mark his first competitive appearance since September 2015, when he joined Brazilian club Fluminense. Although he officially announced his retirement in 2018, the prospect of seeing one of football’s most entertaining players back in action generated considerable excitement.
RONALD’S EYES LAST MOMENT OF MAGIC
The comeback also gives Ronaldinho an opportunity to reach one final milestone. The Brazilian is aiming for the 300th goal of his professional career, ending his playing days with 299 goals.
Ravenna’s game against Forli at the Stadio Bruno Benelli will set the stage for his much-anticipated return. The club announced that the Brazilian would wear its colors in the derby, describing the occasion as a moment that would turn the world’s attention towards the stadium.
Meanwhile, Ronaldinho has expressed his excitement about returning to the game. After signing, he said he couldn’t wait to play football again and write a new story with the club. For the former Brazil international, football has always been about joy and he hopes to bring that spirit to Ravenna.
The Brazilian’s association with the club is also part of an ambitious project to raise his profile. His presence as a shareholder and player is expected to bring international attention to the Italian side and help strengthen its connection with supporters.
Of course, Ronaldinho needs no introduction. He was part of the Brazil team that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup and won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 after a remarkable spell at Barcelona. He also represented Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan and dazzled fans with his dribbling, creativity, outrageous skills and signature smile.
At Barcelona, he played a key role in the club’s rise in the mid-2000s, winning two La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2006.
Now, more than 11 years after his last competitive appearance, the Brazilian is preparing to return to the pitch. Ravenna supporters will be hoping the man who made football look effortless can provide one more moment of magic – and perhaps find that elusive 300th goal.
– The end