Football icon Ronaldinho has surprised the football world with an unexpected return to the game at 46. He did this by joining Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC as both a player and shareholder. The Brazilian legend has not played professional football since his final spell with Fluminense in 2015. This made his latest move feel more like the beginning of a new adventure than a traditional comeback. His exact role on the pitch is still unclear, and it remains to be seen how much competitive football he will actually play. For now, though, the former Barcelona star appears more interested in enjoying the game again. “New colours, same smile. I cannot wait to dance with the ball and write a beautiful new story with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family. Football has always been joyful for me, and I’m excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!” Ronaldinho said.
Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani also sees the partnership as something much bigger than a headline-grabbing signing. “He was my idol growing up, and his impact on the game extends far beyond football,” Cipriani said. “Beyond what he brings to the club, I hope his involvement inspires a new generation of supporters to fall in love with Ravenna FC and become part of what we’re building for the future.” With Ronaldinho also taking a stake in the club, his return could become an important part of Ravenna’s ambitions both on and off the field.
“I will certainly play”: Ronaldinho confirms professional football return at 46 with Ravenna FC
Ronaldinho has confirmed that his return to football with Italian third-tier club Ravenna will not be limited to a role off the pitch. At 46, the Brazilian legend is set to make a brief return to professional football, 11 years after his last competitive appearance. He has joined Ravenna’s ownership group but will also pull on the club’s shirt for at least a few minutes in an official match. Speaking to Flashscore, the former Barcelona star put an end to the uncertainty surrounding his playing role. “Yes, it’s true! Let’s say it’s a challenge for me, too. I will certainly play a few minutes in an official match, then we’ll see how I feel.” The comeback comes after a long gap from competitive football, although Ronaldinho has continued to feature in exhibition and legends matches.
The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner also explained what brought him into the Ravenna project and why he decided to take on the unusual challenge. “A great understanding was born with the Cipriani group. It started almost as a game, but then it materialised into something much bigger,” he said. Asked about concerns over his fitness after such a lengthy absence, Ronaldinho kept his trademark light-hearted approach, “My fitness? (he smiles) I’ll do my best. In any case, I will be part of the Ravenna project, and I can tell you there are many new developments to come.” With the possibility of one final professional goal now on the table, fans will have to wait to see the Brazilian icon back in competitive action.
