The wizard is back: Ronaldinho joins Ravenna at 46

Having played his last professional match for Fluminense in 2015, Ronaldinho joins a club's books again after nearly 11 years. The nature of this return, however, came with notable clarifications from the club. Ravenna's management said his contribution would be predominantly off the pitch, taking on marketing, promotional activities and a strategic investor/shareholder role. Club vice-president Ariedo Braida, who previously worked with Ronaldinho at Milan, initially played down talk of a playing comeback: "Ronaldinho will take part in marketing events with us, but he will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season. Also, because he's 46, I wish he could still play."

Braida later cracked the door open slightly: "Will he play? We'll see, but it's not ruled out. As I said, he is a timeless champion." Those words kept alive fans' dreams of seeing a World Cup winner on a professional pitch once more.

Ronaldinho shared his enthusiasm for the new chapter: "New colours, same smile. I can't wait to dance on the ball again and 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 that same spirit to Ravenna." Ravenna's US-based Italian businessman owner, Ignazio Cipriani, called the move an "extraordinary moment" for the club and said Ronaldinho was his boyhood idol.

Having enjoyed countless triumphs with Barcelona, AC Milan and Brazil, Ronaldinho won a Serie A title during his Milan spell between 2008 and 2011. This move marks his return to Italian football after nearly 15 years. The legend, who scored 235 goals and provided 181 assists in 647 professional games, had kept his connection to the sport through exhibition matches, charity games and legends tournaments during his years away.

For Ravenna, taken over by Cipriani in 2024, the partnership is seen as a strategic move to raise the club's profile, attract new sponsors and broaden its fanbase. While fans worldwide dream of seeing the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year on a pitch again, Ronaldinho's return is primarily commercial and symbolic. All eyes now turn to the June 23 Miami unveiling and how the partnership will unfold.

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