Ronaldinho Stuns Football World At 46, Announces Shock Return To Professional Pitch

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has sent shockwaves through the sport by confirming his return to professional football at the age of 46, 11 years after his last competitive appearance.

The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Italy to officially join Serie C side Ravenna, where he has also taken a stake in the club.

Thousands of passionate fans braved intermittent rain to welcome the iconic playmaker during a beachside team presentation ceremony in Marina di Ravenna, with around 6,000 supporters gathering to catch a glimpse of the 2002 World Cup winner.

The former Barcelona and AC Milan star’s star power remains undimmed despite his decade away from the professional game.

Speaking to the media at the event, Ronaldinho expressed his delight at the move, which is driven by a personal and romantic ambition.

“I’m very happy to be here with my friends, but let’s wait and see if things go well with the team,” he said.

He further stated his desire to help his new teammates, saying, “I’m coming to inspire and excite the other players so that we can have a spectacular season and, if possible, win”.

The primary motivation for this sensational return is the pursuit of his 300th career goal.

When asked about reaching the milestone, Ronaldinho said: “If that happens, it will be even more beautiful” . Club president Ignazio Cipriani confirmed the objective, stating that Ronaldinho “will take to the pitch for Ravenna in an official professional match, with one clear and romantic aim, to try to score the final goal of his career”.

While there was initial confusion about whether the Brazilian would actually play, with vice-president Ariedo Braida suggesting a purely marketing role, Ronaldinho has settled the debate.

“I will certainly play a few minutes in an official match, then we’ll see how I feel,” he confirmed.

He remains coy on the exact timeline, however, saying, “I don’t know, that depends on the president, on the trainer”.

Fans will have to wait a little longer to see the magic on the pitch, as he will not feature in Ravenna’s Serie C opener against Reggiana on Monday.

Ronaldinho, who last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015 before officially retiring in 2018, has kept in shape through exhibition matches and is eager to bring his joyful spirit back to the game.