Ronaldinho Signs With Serie C Side Ravenna to End 11-Year Retirement

Brazil legend Ronaldinho, 46, has officially signed with Italian third-division club Ravenna following a surprise announcement in June.

RAVENNA, Italy -- Ronaldinho has officially returned to professional soccer at age 46, signing a contract with Italian third-division club Ravenna. The 2002 World Cup winner and 2005 Ballon d’Or recipient landed at Forlì Airport, located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the city, via private jet around midday local time on Thursday. This move marks his first professional engagement since his tenure with Fluminense ended in 2015 and signifies his second stint in Italian football following his 2008-2011 period with AC Milan.

Thursday, designated as "Ronaldinho day," began with the Brazilian star signing soccer balls for airport staff on the runway before departing in a private vehicle. He was accompanied by Ravenna President Ignazio Cipriani, the figurehead of the Cipriani restaurant brand. Despite intermittent rain, thousands of fans gathered for a glitzy beachside ceremony where the full squad was presented. Ronaldinho was scheduled to appear last during the evening festivities to maximize fanfare for the local supporters.

Return to Italian League Play

While the signing was initially announced in June, Ronaldinho confirmed he will not feature in Ravenna’s opening Serie C match of the campaign. That fixture is scheduled for Monday against Reggio Emilia. The veteran playmaker stated his arrival was motivated by his personal friendship with Cipriani, though he remained non-committal regarding his specific minutes on the pitch. When questioned about his physical condition, the former Barcelona star noted he feels fine but emphasized that his playing time depends entirely on the decisions of the team president and the coach.

President Cipriani publicly stated that his ultimate dream for this partnership is to see the Brazilian legend score the final goal of his professional career while wearing the Ravenna colors. Ronaldinho responded to this ambition by stating that if such an event occurs, it would be even better, though his primary focus remains on helping the squad improve. The club, based in a city noted more for its coastal geography than its historical soccer success, currently competes in the third tier of the Italian league system.

Career Statistics and Presentation Details

Ronaldinho’s arrival follows a decade-long absence from the professional game. During his first press conference since landing, he expressed happiness to be among friends while urging observers to wait and see how the team performs. His arrival at the airport bypassed a small group of fans waiting landside, as he was whisked directly to the press presentation and subsequent beach ceremony.

The 46-year-old’s resume includes a World Cup title secured with Brazil 24 years ago and the prestigious Ballon d'Or trophy earned 21 years ago. His previous experience in Italy resulted in three seasons at the San Siro before he returned to South America. Ravenna fans will now wait for official word from the coaching staff to determine when the iconic number 10 will make his competitive debut in Serie C following the conclusion of the Monday night opener.