Ronaldinho returns to football with Ravenna

Brazilian football great Ronaldinho has returned to professional football at the age of 46, joining Italian third-tier club Ravenna 11 years after his last competitive appearance.

The former Barcelona and AC Milan star arrived in Italy on Thursday and was presented to thousands of supporters during Ravenna’s team presentation ceremony on Marina di Ravenna beach.

Ronaldinho signed with the Serie C club in June and has also taken a stake in Ravenna. The club said he will be officially registered as a player, making him eligible to feature in the Italian third tier.

300th goal in sight

Ronaldinho is hoping to reach 300 career goals during his return, although there is no date yet for his debut and it remains unclear how many matches he will play.

“If that happens, it will be even more beautiful,” Ronaldinho said when asked about the milestone.

“I don't know, that depends on the president, on the trainer. I came here because of the friendship we have. We'll wait for the squad to do well. I'm here to help,” he added.

Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani said he dreams of Ronaldinho scoring the final goal of his professional career for the club.

Ronaldinho will not play in Ravenna’s Serie C opener away to Reggiana on Monday.

Return after 11 years

Ronaldinho last played professionally for Brazilian club Fluminense in 2015 before officially announcing his retirement in 2018.

The Brazilian was a key member of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning team and won the 2005 Ballon d’Or. During his club career, he also lifted the Champions League with Barcelona and the Serie A title with AC Milan.

Ravenna finished third in Serie C Group B last season and are targeting promotion to Serie B, where the club last played in the 2007-08 season.