Ronaldinho Returns to Italian Football at 46 With Serie C Club Ravenna

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has made a sensational return to competitive football at the age of 46, signing for Italian third-tier club Ravenna FC in Serie C.

The former AC Milan and Barcelona star has been officially registered by Ravenna for their Serie C and Coppa Italia campaigns under manager Andrea Mandorlini. The move marks Ronaldinho's return to competitive registration since his spell with Fluminense ended in 2015.

“I can’t wait to dance with the ball again,” Ronaldinho said after the announcement, signalling his excitement at returning to the pitch.

The move is more than a conventional playing contract. Ronaldinho has also joined Ravenna's ownership group alongside club president Ignazio Cipriani. The partnership will incorporate his global R10 brand and include the launch of specialised merchandise.

However, fans should not expect Ronaldinho to feature across a full league campaign. Ravenna officials have confirmed that the 46-year-old will make at least one competitive home appearance.

The appearance will also give the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner an opportunity to pursue one final personal ambition — scoring the last professional goal of his illustrious career.

Ronaldinho remains one of football's most celebrated entertainers. The Brazilian won the FIFA World Cup with Brazil in 2002, claimed the Ballon d'Or in 2005 and enjoyed trophy-laden spells with clubs including Barcelona and AC Milan.

His return to Italian football now gives supporters a chance to see one of the game's most iconic entertainers back on a competitive pitch.