Ronaldinho ‘comes out of retirement’ at the age of 46 to sign for Italian football club

Brazilian football icon and former Barcelona star, Ronaldinho, has been linked with a sensational return to the sport at the age of 46 after reports emerged that he had joined Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC.

The development initially sparked excitement among football fans around the world, with reports suggesting the former World Cup winner had decided to come out of retirement more than a decade after stepping away from professional football.

Ronaldinho officially retired from the game in 2015 following a brief spell with Brazilian club Fluminense, bringing an end to one of the most celebrated careers in football history.

The former attacking midfielder enjoyed a glittering career that saw him win numerous titles, including the FIFA World Cup with Brazil, the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, and the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.

Reports indicated that Ravenna FC, a club competing in Italy’s Serie C, had secured Ronaldinho’s signature as part of efforts to boost the club’s profile after narrowly missing promotion last season.

The club’s owner, Ignazio Cipriani, has reportedly been keen on making a major statement in the transfer market, leading to widespread speculation over Ronaldinho’s involvement.

Speaking about the move, Ronaldinho expressed excitement about beginning a new chapter associated with the club.

“New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to get back to dancing on the ball and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family,” he said.

“Football has always been a source of joy for me, and I want to bring that same spirit to Ravenna.”

Cipriani also spoke glowingly about the Brazilian legend, describing him as his childhood football idol and one of the players who inspired him growing up.

“Acquiring Ronaldinho is absolutely extraordinary for the club. He was my idol and his impact on football goes beyond what he did on the pitch,” he said.

However, as excitement continued to build, conflicting reports emerged regarding the nature of Ronaldinho’s relationship with the club.

While some reports claimed the football legend had signed as a player, others suggested the arrangement was primarily intended for promotional and marketing purposes rather than competitive football.

The speculation was eventually addressed by Ravenna FC honorary vice-president, Ariedo Braida, who clarified that Ronaldinho would not be playing for the club in Serie C.

According to Braida, the Brazilian is expected to participate in marketing and publicity activities connected to the club but will not feature in official matches.

“Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us, but he won’t play for Ravenna in Serie C next season,” Braida told The Sun.

“I wish he were still able to play. Dinho was a phenomenon and was a wonderful player.”

Braida also revealed that he shares a long-standing relationship with Ronaldinho dating back to their time together at AC Milan.

“I have a beautiful relationship with him from the Milan days, but he won’t play in Serie C with us,” he added.

The clarification appears to have ended speculation about a competitive comeback for the football legend, although his association with Ravenna is still expected to generate significant international attention.

Despite not returning to professional action, Ronaldinho remains one of the most beloved figures in football history, renowned for his extraordinary skill, creativity, and ability to entertain fans across the globe throughout his illustrious career.