Ronaldinho, 46, Signs with Serie C Side Ravenna: 'Let the Magic Begin'

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Ronaldinho, the 2002 World Cup winner and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, has signed with Italian Serie C side Ravenna at the age of 46. More than a decade after his last professional appearance, the Brazilian magician is ready to 'dance with the ball' once again.

Ronaldinho’s last professional stint came in 2015 with Fluminense, but his legacy—defined by dazzling dribbles, no-look passes, and that unforgettable free-kick against England—remains untouchable. Now, Ravenna FC, a club in Italy’s third division, has pulled off arguably the most surreal signing of the year, bringing the Samba star out of retirement.

The driving force behind this deal is Ignazio Cipriani, scion of the Cipriani restaurant empire, who took over Ravenna with ambitions to revive the club’s fortunes. At a presentation in Miami, Cipriani admitted, 'Ronaldinho was my idol growing up. I hope his involvement inspires a new generation to fall in love with Ravenna.' The move is as much about marketing as it is about football—Cipriani’s family name is synonymous with luxury, and Ronaldinho’s flair is the perfect fit for a club seeking attention.

For Serie C, the arrival of a global icon is a massive boost. Ravenna currently plays in Group B of Italy’s third tier, and while Ronaldinho’s fitness remains a question mark, his presence alone could fill stadiums and attract sponsors. The player himself seems unfazed by the challenge. 'Football has always been joyful for me, and I’m excited to bring that spirit to Ravenna,' he said. 'Let the magic begin!'

Of course, skeptics will point to his age and the physical demands of competitive football. But for Ravenna’s fans, this is a dream come true. The idea of seeing Ronaldinho—even a rusty, 46-year-old version—lace up his boots in the Italian lower leagues is enough to ignite the imagination. Whether he plays a single minute or becomes a regular fixture in the lineup, this signing is a reminder that football’s greatest entertainer still has one more trick up his sleeve.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Ravenna. Can Ronaldinho’s magic translate to Serie C? Will he dance past defenders as he did in his prime? One thing is certain: the football world will be watching. And if there’s one thing Ronaldinho has always done, it’s making the impossible look effortless.