Ronaldinho Set to Make Football Comeback with Ravenna After 11 Years

Brazilian football star Ronaldinho is set to return to the field on Sunday, more than a decade after he last played professionally. At 46 years old, he will join the Italian third-tier team Ravenna in a local derby against Forli.

Ronaldinho expressed his excitement about this comeback, saying it will be “truly beautiful.” He last played in 2015 for Fluminense and has since enjoyed a successful career, including winning the Ballon d’Or in 2005. He shared his happiness about being part of Ravenna’s ambitions, stating, “I want to have a great day. I’m happy to be here for the start of this wonderful story.”

The president of Ravenna, Ignazio Cipriani, has big dreams for the club, aiming to reach Serie A for the first time in its history. The match is expected to draw a large crowd, with the usual capacity of 5,000 fans sold out and an additional temporary stand set up to accommodate more spectators.

Ravenna currently sits second in their group in Serie C, six points behind the leaders. Ronaldinho hopes to score his 300th career goal during this match, having last scored his 299th goal over ten years ago.

Despite some viewing his return as a publicity stunt, Cipriani remains optimistic that this move will help realize his vision for the club. He emphasized the long-term goal of promoting Ravenna to Serie A.