Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho has signed for Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC. The 46-year-old will be unveiled at an event in Miami on 23 June but is not expected to play competitive matches.
The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner announced his retirement in 2015 and has not played professionally in more than a decade. Ravenna, based in northern Italy, is owned by businessman Ignazio Cipriani, who completed a takeover in 2024. Ronaldinho is also a shareholder at the club.
Ronaldinho said: “New colours, same smile. I cannot wait to dance with the ball and write a beautiful new story with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family. Football has always been joyful for me, and I’m excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!”
Club vice-president Ariedo Braida clarified the arrangement after earlier speculation. “Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us but will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season,” Braida said. “Also because he’s 46, I wish he could still play. Ronaldinho was a phenomenon and was a wonderful player.”
