Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has described his return to competitive football after 11 years away from the game as “truly beautiful” ahead of his appearance for Italian third-tier club Ravenna on Sunday.
The 46-year-old, who last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015, is set to feature for Ravenna in their local derby against Forli, marking an unexpected return to the pitch more than a decade after retiring.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner said he was excited to be part of Ravenna’s ambitions and looked forward to experiencing a special moment in his life.
“Returning to the pitch after so much time is truly beautiful. I’m here to experience a special moment in my life,” Ronaldinho said.
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“It’s been a few years since I stopped playing. I’ve won everything I ever dreamed of.
“Now I’m 46, and I’ve experienced everything there is to experience in football. This is a completely different kind of opportunity. I want to be part of the dream held by my friends who work for Ravenna.”
Ronaldinho embraces Ravenna’s ambitious project
Ronaldinho also expressed his excitement about joining the club’s project, describing the opportunity as a chance to contribute to an ambitious vision.
“I want to have a great day. I’m happy to be here for the start of this wonderful story,” he said.
“The president dreams of something big for Ravenna, and being a part of it makes me happy.”
Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani has set his sights on taking the club to Serie A for the first time in their history, with Ronaldinho’s arrival expected to generate significant attention around the team.
Ravenna fans prepare for Ronaldinho’s return
The excitement surrounding the Brazilian’s appearance has already been reflected in ticket demand. The club’s Stadio Bruno Benelli, which normally accommodates around 5,000 spectators, is sold out, while an additional temporary stand with a capacity of 1,800 has been erected and named “R10” in his honour.
Ravenna, who have not featured in Serie B since 2008, are second in their Serie C group, six points behind leaders Spezia.
Brazilian targets 300th career goal
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain playmaker will also have an opportunity to chase a personal milestone, with his career goal tally standing at 299. He will be hoping to reach the 300-goal mark during his return.
Ronaldinho’s return comes after an eventful period away from professional football. The Brazilian spent time in a Paraguayan prison in 2020 after entering the country with a false passport, although he famously featured in a prison futsal match during his detention.
While his appearance for Ravenna has attracted considerable attention as a marketing initiative, Cipriani believes the move can help raise the club’s profile and support its long-term ambition of reaching Italy’s top flight.
“The long-term goal is to get Ravenna promoted to Serie A,” the club president said.
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