Eleven years after his football retirement, Ronaldinho makes a surprising comeback. The 46-year-old Brazilian icon will sign with Ravenna, a club from Italy’s third division, although according to the Italian newspaper his return will Tuttosport be limited to a practice match.
The former superstar of FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan announced his retirement from football in 2015 after a short spell at Fluminense.
Ronaldinho, who will be officially presented on Tuesday during an event in Miami, becomes a shareholder of Ravenna and also hints at a possible return to the field.
“New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to dance with the ball again and write a new chapter. Football has always been a source of joy for me, and I want to bring that same enthusiasm to Ravenna,” he was quoted as saying by Italian newspaper La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
It was later confirmed by Ravenna vice-president Ariedo Braida that the world champion will not be able to play for the club due to his age.
“I wish he could still play. Dinho was a phenomenon and a fantastic player. He will do a marketing event with us, but he will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season,” Braida revealed in conversation with the Italian newspaper. Tuttosport.
The same newspaper reports that Ronaldinho will soon play a practice match for Ravenna.