Ronaldinho, 46, makes surprise return to professional football

by Chumasande Matiwane

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has made a stunning return to professional football at the age of 46, joining Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC more than a decade after his last professional appearance.

The former Brazil international arrived in Italy on Thursday as Ravenna prepared to present him to supporters officially.

Also see: Brazil’s Neymar retires from international football after World Cup loss

Ronaldinho back in action

Ronaldinho has joined the club as an investor and strategic partner, while also leaving the door open to playing in an official match. 

He last played professionally for Brazilian side Fluminense in 2015. Although he formally retired in 2018, he has continued to appear in exhibition and charity matches around the world. His return to Ravenna therefore represents a remarkable new chapter in the career of one of football’s most celebrated entertainers. 

A surprising return to Italy

The move takes Ronaldinho back to Italy, where he previously enjoyed a successful spell with AC Milan between 2008 and 2011.  

He won the Serie A title with Milan and became a major attraction for Italian football fans during his time at the club. 

Ravenna currently competes in Italy’s third tier, Serie C. Club owner Ignazio Cipriani, a friend of Ronaldinho, has ambitious plans to take the team higher in the Italian football pyramid. Ronaldinho’s involvement is intended to help increase the club’s profile, attract supporters and contribute to its wider sporting and commercial project. 

The biggest question surrounding the comeback is whether fans will see the Brazilian magician in a competitive match. 

Also see: France wins friendly match against Brazil

The legend returns

Ronaldinho remains one of the most recognisable players of his generation. He helped Brazil win the 2002 FIFA World Cup, won the 2005 Ballon d’Or, and enjoyed trophy-filled spells with clubs including Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan. His career was defined by his creativity, flair and trademark smile. 

Now, more than 11 years after his final professional appearance, the 46-year-old is once again part of a professional Italian football setup. Whether his Ravenna adventure produces one final competitive appearance or remains primarily a leadership and promotional role, Ronaldinho’s return has already generated enormous attention for the Serie C club. 

Also see: Lucas Ribeiro takes Sundowns to FIFA- Brazilian star seeks contract exit

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