Ronaldinho, the former Brazil and Barcelona legend, has signed for Italian Serie C side Ravenna FC, it has been revealed – but it is unclear whether the 46-year-old will actually play a competitive match.
The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner – who last played professionally more than a decade ago – is set to be officially unveiled by the club at an event in Miami on 23 June. The World Cup winner is also a shareholder at the club.
Ronaldinho, who has been following Brazil at this summer’s World Cup, said: “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!”
Ravenna, a club based in northern Italy, are currently owned by businessman Ignazio Cipriani, who completed a takeover of the club in 2024, while former AC Milan executive Ariedo Braida is the club’s vice-president.
Cipriani has been quoted as saying: “Bringing Ronaldinho to Ravenna FC by Cipriani is an extraordinary moment for the club.
“He was my idol growing up, and his impact on the game extends far beyond football.
“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.”
Conflicting statements
Initial reports hinted at Ronaldinho’s desire to make a formal comeback on the pitch, with the playmaker reportedly claiming to have made himself available for pre-season as the team prepares to push for promotion to Italy’s second tier.
Braida initially fuelled speculation by saying it was “not out of the question” that Ronaldinho would feature for the team, adding that “he’s a champion, he has no age”.
However, Braida then appears to have rejected claims the Brazilian would play, instead suggesting he would only return to the pitch for a “marketing event”.
Braida said: “Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us but will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season. Also because he’s 46, I wish he could still play.
“Ronaldinho was a phenomenon and was a wonderful player. I’ve had a wonderful relationship with him since his time at Milan, but he won’t play in Serie C with us.”
