Ronaldinho returns to professional football at 46, joins Italian club

Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has made a sensational return to professional football at the age of 46, joining Italian Serie C club Ravenna 11 years after his last competitive appearance.

The former Ballon d’Or winner was officially unveiled by Ravenna on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in a ceremony attended by thousands of supporters.

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Ronaldinho’s return marks a remarkable comeback for one of football’s most celebrated entertainers, who enjoyed a glittering career with clubs including Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as the Brazil national team.

The Brazilian is also taking a stake in Ravenna as part of his involvement with the club.

One of his personal ambitions is to score the 300th goal of his career during his return to competitive football.

However, fans will have to wait before seeing the 46-year-old in action. Ravenna have confirmed that Ronaldinho will not feature in their opening Serie C fixture against Reggiana.

His exact debut date has yet to be announced as the club assesses when he will be ready to return to competitive action.

The move has nevertheless generated significant excitement among football supporters, with Ronaldinho’s return providing a rare opportunity to see one of the game’s most iconic players back on a professional pitch more than a decade after his final competitive appearance.