More than a decade after his last professional appearance, Ronaldinho is set to make a sensational return to club football after signing for Italian Serie C side Ravenna.
The Brazilian icon, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 and inspired Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002, has agreed a deal with the third-tier club in one of the most unexpected moves in recent football history. Ronaldinho will be officially unveiled during a special presentation event in Miami on June 23.
The move marks a return to Italy for the former Barcelona and AC Milan star, who spent two-and-a-half successful seasons with the Rossoneri between 2008 and 2011. Since leaving Fluminense in 2015, Ronaldinho has largely stayed away from professional football, appearing only in exhibition matches, charity events and legends games around the world.
His arrival has already generated huge excitement among Ravenna supporters, although uncertainty remains over what role he will play at the club during the 2026-27 campaign.
Ravenna vice-president Ariedo Braida initially suggested Ronaldinho’s involvement would be limited to commercial and promotional activities.
“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,” Braida said.
However, the club official later softened his stance and refused to rule out the possibility of the Brazilian featuring competitively.
“Ronaldinho is a timeless champion. He has signed with Ravenna and, for a club like ours, it’s an extraordinary coup,” Braida told ANSA.
“Will he play? We’ll see, but it’s not ruled out. As I already said, he is a timeless champion.”
Ronaldinho also expressed his excitement at beginning a new chapter in Italy, insisting his passion for football remains as strong as ever.
“New colours, same smile,” he said.
“I can’t wait to be able to dance on the ball again to write a new story together with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family. Football has always been a source of joy for me, and I want to bring the same spirit to Ravenna.”
Few players have left a bigger mark on modern football than Ronaldinho. During his illustrious career, he won the Champions League, two La Liga titles, a Serie A title and the FIFA World Cup, while becoming one of the sport’s most entertaining and beloved figures.
Whether he ultimately steps onto the pitch for Ravenna remains to be seen. However, his arrival alone represents a major boost for the club’s profile and visibility as preparations continue for the new season.
More details about Ronaldinho’s role are expected when he is officially presented next week, with football fans around the world eagerly waiting to discover whether the Brazilian legend will once again grace a competitive football field.
