Football

Brazilian Legend Ronaldinho Joins Third-Tier Club Ravenna, Making Waves in the Football World

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 21, 2026, 12:18 IST

Ronaldinho, the legendary Brazilian footballer, has arrived in Ravenna, a city renowned more for its beaches than its soccer club.

Brazilian Legend Ronaldinho Joins Third-Tier Club Ravenna, Making Waves in the Football World

Brazilian soccer icon Ronaldinho made a grand entrance in Ravenna on Thursday, a city better known for its picturesque beaches than its football team. The event, dubbed "Ronaldinho Day," attracted a crowd of approximately 6,000 enthusiastic fans who gathered despite the rain, waving flags and lighting flares as the legendary player was introduced. The atmosphere was electrified by the song "Hall of Fame" by The Script, which played during the presentation of the third-division club's team for the upcoming season.

In a surprising turn of events, the 46-year-old Ronaldinho signed with Ravenna in June, marking his return to professional soccer more than a decade after his retirement. During the press conference, he expressed his excitement about joining the team, stating, "I'm very happy to be here with my friends, but let's wait and see if things go well with the team." When asked about his potential debut, he humorously remarked, "I feel fine... I don't know, it depends on the president and coach. I don't know."

Arrival and Reception

Ronaldinho arrived at Forli Airport, located about 30 kilometers from Ravenna, via private jet around midday. He took a moment to sign soccer balls for airport staff before making his way to a waiting car, bypassing a small group of fans who had gathered to greet him. Accompanying him was Ignazio Cipriani, the president of Ravenna and a prominent figure in the restaurant industry.

While Ronaldinho will not participate in Ravenna's opening Serie C match against Reggio Emilia on Monday, his future playing time remains uncertain. Cipriani has expressed a heartfelt desire for the Brazilian star to score his final career goal with Ravenna, a sentiment that resonated with Ronaldinho. "If that happens, even better, no?" he said. "I've come here because of the friendship we have, and that's it, let's wait and see how the team does... I'm here to help."

A Legacy in the Making

Ronaldinho's last professional appearance was with Fluminense in 2015, and this marks his second stint in Italy, having previously played for AC Milan from 2008 to 2011. The former World Cup winner with Brazil in 2002 and Ballon d'Or recipient in 2005 is now set to embark on a new chapter in his storied career, bringing his unique flair and charisma to the pitch in Ravenna.

Latest News

End of Article