Ronaldinho returns to football at 46 with Italian third-division side Ravenna

Ronaldinho Gaúcho, the 46-year-old Brazilian legend, has come out of retirement to play for Ravenna FC in Italy's third-division Serie C Source: Al Jazeera. The announcement was made in Miami on June 23, where he posed with the new jersey and the Ballon d'Or trophy he won in 2005 Source: La Republica.

The announcement

• Ronaldinho expressed his excitement: "Colours new, same smile. Football has always been joy for me and I am excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!" Source: Infobae.
• He emphasized the move is not a publicity stunt but the start of "a serious, competitive, and long-term international chapter" Source: El Mundo.

The project

Ravenna's owner Ignazio Cipriani, who bought the club in 2024, described signing Ronaldinho as a childhood dream: "He inspired me and my whole generation to fall in love with the sport" Source: Channel News Asia. The club has partnered with Nike and appointed Ariedo Braida in a technical role Source: Infobae.

Ronaldinho last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015. He hopes his return will inspire others: "I hope it has a positive impact and motivates others to fulfil their dreams" Source: La Vanguardia.