Football

Ronaldinho to Make Competitive Return for Ravenna at 46

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 25, 2026, 11:31 IST

Brazilian icon Ronaldinho is set to return to professional football next month, representing Italian third-division side Ravenna in a highly anticipated derby match against Forli on November 15.

Ronaldinho to Make Competitive Return for Ravenna at 46

Football icon Ronaldinho is poised to make a remarkable return to the pitch at the age of 46. The Brazilian playmaker, who famously lifted the 2002 FIFA World Cup, has been confirmed to play for Italian third-division club Ravenna next month.

The announcement, made by the club on Saturday, marks a significant moment for the former Barcelona and AC Milan star. Having officially retired from professional football in 2015—a decade after claiming the prestigious Ballon d'Or—Ronaldinho is now set to lace up his boots once more, with a personal goal of reaching 300 career strikes.

A High-Profile Return to the Pitch

Ravenna, a club situated between Venice and San Marino, confirmed that the veteran will make his debut in the upcoming derby clash against Forli. The match is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 15, at the Bruno Benelli Stadium. The club has expressed high expectations for the fixture, noting that the event is set to draw significant global attention to the third-tier encounter.

Ronaldinho’s involvement with the Italian side extends beyond his playing duties, as he is currently a shareholder in the club. His return comes at a pivotal time for Ravenna, who are currently competing in Group B of the Italian third division. The team is chasing a promotion back to Serie B, a level they have not reached since 2008. Currently sitting in second place, they trail league leaders Spezia by six points, and the addition of the legendary playmaker is expected to bolster their campaign as they push for a higher league standing.