Ronaldinho (M) has not played a competitive professional match since 2015
Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has made a sensational return to professional football, 11 years after his last competitive appearance.
The 46-year-old has joined Italian Serie C side Ravenna FC as part of an ambitious project that will see him contribute to the club both on and off the pitch.
Ronaldinho officially retired from football after ending his playing career with Fluminense in 2015, bringing an end to a glittering career that included a World Cup with Brazil, the 2005 Ballon d’Or and a Champions League triumph with Barcelona.
His return, however, comes with an unusual twist. Ronaldinho has not confirmed exactly how much he will play for Ravenna, but he has left open the possibility of featuring in an official match.
The Brazilian is particularly keen on scoring what he describes as his 300th and final career goal.
“Returning to the field and scoring? If it happens, it will be even better,” Ronaldinho said during his presentation in Ravenna, adding that he was there to bring “enthusiasm” and “spectacle” to his teammates and supporters.
Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani has also confirmed that Ronaldinho will not feature in the club’s season opener against Reggiana, meaning fans will have to wait for his possible return to competitive action.
FKA/AM
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