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Ronaldinho Ravenna FC: Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldinho is heading back to the pitch — sort of.
The 46-year-old has agreed to join Ravenna FC, a club competing in Italy's Serie C, the country's third division.
La Gazzetta dello Sport first reported the move. An official presentation is set for June 23 in Miami.
Ronaldinho shared his excitement in comments published by the Italian outlet.
He said new colors won't change his trademark smile. He also expressed eagerness to get back on the ball.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan star said he wants to build a new chapter alongside club owner Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family.
He added that soccer has always brought him joy, and he hopes to bring that same energy to Ravenna.
The deal marks a striking return for a player who hasn't competed professionally in nearly eleven years.
His last official match came on September 26, 2015, while playing for Fluminense. Over a 647-match career, Ronaldinho scored 235 goals and recorded 181 assists.
Stunt or Genuine Comeback?
Questions remain over what role Ronaldinho will actually play. According to La Gazzetta, he could be available for preseason training as early as July.
The club's full squad presentation is scheduled for August.
Whether this counts as a genuine return to competitive soccer is still unclear. The Miami event will double as a launch for Ravenna's new kits.
It remains uncertain what Ronaldinho's involvement will look like beyond that moment.
Possibilities range from a shareholder role to an actual roster spot in Serie C.
Ravenna vice president Ariedo Braida confirmed the signing in comments to the Italian news agency ANSA.
He called Ronaldinho a timeless, one-of-a-kind champion. He described the signing as an extraordinary win for a club like Ravenna.
Braida stopped short of confirming whether Ronaldinho will actually compete. He said the possibility hasn't been ruled out.
The move reflects the ambitions of Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani, heir to the family behind Venice's famed Harry's Bar.
Cipriani has reportedly spent months cultivating a relationship with the Brazilian icon.
He purchased Ravenna two seasons ago with hopes of pushing the club into Serie B. That promotion bid fell short in the most recent season.
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