Ronaldinho ends retirement to sign for Italian third-tier side Ravenna at 46

The signing in Miami

On Tuesday night, Ronaldinho and Ravenna FC president Ignazio Cipriani appeared together in Miami to announce the deal. The 46-year-old posed in the club's new white jersey next to his 2005 Ballon d'Or trophy before signing the shirt with Cipriani beside him.

I cannot wait to dance with the ball. Football has always been joyful for me, and I'm excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!

What the move entails

Cipriani, who bought the club in 2024, said Ronaldinho will not join the team's pre-season retreat but will take part in the 21 August squad presentation and play in at least one home league match. The Brazilian will also enter the club's ownership structure and launch his R10 technical brand on the team's kit, alongside Nike.

He was my idol growing up. I hope his involvement inspires a new generation of supporters to fall in love with Ravenna.

Local and regional excitement

Ravenna mayor Alessandro Barattoni described the signing as "one of those events that will never be forgotten", while regional president Michele de Pascale, a former Ravenna mayor, said the arrival would bring global attention to the city and the Emilia-Romagna region.

A career of highs and post-retirement lows

Ronaldinho won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil, the 2005 Ballon d'Or and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006. His last professional match was for Fluminense in 2015. In the intervening years, he faced legal troubles, including a 2020 arrest in Paraguay over fake passports, financial difficulties, and weight issues, reportedly weighing as much as 140 kg at one stage.

Ambitions beyond the pitch

Cipriani aims to take Ravenna all the way to Serie A, working with investment fund Black Duck and veteran director Ariedo Braida. The club is also developing a new training centre under general manager Paolo Scocco.