Former Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldinho has shocked the sports world by coming out of retirement at age 46. Eleven years after playing his last official match in 2015, the legendary football star has signed to play for Ravenna FC in Italy's third-tier league, Serie C.
The news first seemed like an unbelievable rumor when Ravenna announced the deal in June. Doubts vanished on Thursday morning when Ronaldinho stepped off a private jet in Forlì, wearing a floral shirt, Bermuda shorts, and his signature flat cap. He immediately went for a medical examination before meeting fans and journalists.
Ronaldinho will not only play on the pitch, but he will also become a co-owner and shareholder in the club. Ravenna's president, Ignazio Cipriani, explained that bringing the Brazilian superstar to the city is about creating new enthusiasm for the team. Ronaldinho stated that friendship and passion inspired his return to Italian football, where he previously played for AC Milan. He expressed hope that he could help the team, excite his fellow players, and score the final goal of his career in Ravenna's yellow-and-red jersey.
The arrival of the football legend has created massive excitement throughout Ravenna. The club presented the entire squad on a beach stage at Marina di Ravenna in front of celebrating supporters. Head coach Andrea Mandorlini officially handed Ronaldinho the club's famous number 10 jersey.
Fans have rushed to support the team, leading to more than 2,700 season tickets being sold for the upcoming season. Although Ronaldinho will not participate in Ravenna's opening match on Monday, supporters are eagerly waiting to see the legendary star step back onto the field.