Ronaldinho has stunned football fans by agreeing a surprise deal with Italian club Ravenna.
The Brazilian icon, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, has joined the ambitious Serie C outfit in a move that nobody saw coming during the 2026 World Cup. However, supporters hoping to see the former Barcelona and AC Milan star rolling back the years on the pitch may be left disappointed.
At 46 years old, Ronaldinho has not played professional football since ending his career following a short spell with Fluminense. Instead, his new role with Ravenna will focus on marketing, promotion and helping raise the profile of the club as they prepare for the upcoming Serie C campaign.
The deal is expected to be officially unveiled at a major event in Miami next week, with Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani describing the acquisition as a dream come true.
Cipriani admitted Ronaldinho was his childhood idol and believes the Brazilian’s involvement can help transform the club’s global profile. Ravenna narrowly missed out on promotion last season and are looking to build momentum ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Speaking after the agreement was reached, Ronaldinho said: “New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to get back to dancing on the ball and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family.”
He added that football has always been a source of joy and that he hopes to bring that same energy and spirit to Ravenna.
Speculation quickly spread online that the World Cup winner could be preparing for an unlikely playing comeback in Italy’s third tier. However, Ravenna honorary vice-president Ariedo Braida has poured cold water on those rumours.
Braida confirmed Ronaldinho will not be registering as a player for the club and that his involvement is strictly off the pitch. While he joked that he wished the Brazilian magician could still play, he made it clear that fans should not expect to see him lining up in Serie C next season.
Even without pulling on the boots again, Ronaldinho’s arrival represents one of the most eye-catching moves in European football this summer. The former Ballon d’Or winner remains one of the sport’s most recognisable figures, and his association with Ravenna is certain to bring unprecedented attention to the Italian club.
For a team looking to make a statement, there are few bigger names they could have attracted than Ronaldinho.
