Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has officially come out of retirement at the age of 46, signing for Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC in a move that has stunned the global football community.
Ronaldinho, who last featured professionally for Fluminense in 2015, is set to be unveiled during a special club event scheduled to hold in Miami on June 23.
The former World Cup winner is also reported to have taken a shareholder position in the club, signaling a deeper long-term involvement beyond playing duties.
Speaking on his return Saturday, Ronaldinho expressed excitement about wearing new colours and reviving his trademark flair on the pitch.
“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,” he said.
“Football has always been joyful for me, and I’m excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!”
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Ravenna FC, currently owned by businessman Ignazio Cipriani, completed a takeover of the club in 2024.
The project has also attracted experienced football administrator Ariedo Braida, who serves as vice-president, adding further credibility to the club’s ambitious restructuring.
The unexpected return of Ronaldinho has already generated widespread reactions across the football world, with fans eager to see how the Brazilian legend adapts to competitive action after more than a decade away from professional play.
The move marks one of the most surprising comebacks in modern football history, blending nostalgia with a fresh attempt to reshape the identity of a lower-division Italian club.
