Brazilian football legend and World Cup winner, Ronaldinho, has agreed a surprise deal with Italian third-tier club Ravenna FC, more than a decade after ending his professional playing career.
The 46-year-old, who retired following a short spell with Brazilian side Fluminense in 2015, is expected to be formally unveiled by Ravenna at an event scheduled to take place in Miami next week.
Ronaldinho’s involvement with the club immediately triggered speculation over a possible return to competitive football.
However, club officials have clarified that the former Barcelona and AC Milan forward will not be registered as a player for the Serie C side.
Instead, the agreement forms part of a wider partnership between Ronaldinho and the club, with his role focused away from the pitch.
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Speaking about the partnership, Ronaldinho expressed excitement about the project.
“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.
“Football has always been a source of joy for me, and I want to bring that same spirit to Ravenna.”
Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani described the agreement as a major moment for the club, noting the long-standing personal significance of working with the Brazilian icon.
“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,” Cipriani said.
The club’s honorary vice-president Ariedo Braida also moved to clarify Ronaldinho’s role, dismissing suggestions that he would return to playing duties.
“Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us, but he won’t play for Ravenna in Serie C next season.
“I wish he were still able to play. Dinho was a phenomenon and a wonderful player,” Braida told Tuttosport.
