AAP Soccer

Rebooted Ronaldinho rises again for an Italian sojourn

By AAP Newswire

Jun 24, 2026

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho is making a surprise return to the game at Italian third-tier side Ravenna FC.

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Widely recognised as one of the most talented footballers of his generation, the former Barcelona star announced his move at an event in Miami on Tuesday (local time).

Club president Ignazio Cipriani, an entrepreneur and hotel chain owner, described the transfer as an "extraordinary moment" for Ravenna.

The club described 46-year-old Ronaldinho's comeback as "far more than a symbolic signing".

"I cannot wait to dance with the ball and write a beautiful new story with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family," Ronaldinho said in a statement on the club's website.

"Football has always been joyful for me, and I'm excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!"

Ronaldinho played his last professional match in 2015 for Fluminense. Just over two years later, he officially ended his career.

The flamboyant forward was voted FIFA World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005.

He won the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006, and the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.