Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has made a surprise return to professional football after joining Italian third-tier club Ravenna, more than a decade after stepping away from the game. The 46-year-old arrived in Ravenna on Thursday and was welcomed with a major presentation that attracted around 6,000 supporters despite intermittent rain. The event, which was held on the beach, highlighted the excitement surrounding one of the most famous players of his generation becoming the club’s new No. 10.

Ronaldinho arrived at nearby Forlì Airport by private jet around midday before traveling to Ravenna alongside club president Ignazio Cipriani. His arrival created considerable attention in the city, with the Brazilian later taking part in a high-profile beachside ceremony featuring flags, flares and music. The occasion was designed as a celebration of his unexpected return and his new connection with a club competing in Serie C.

Despite the excitement, Ronaldinho is not expected to feature in Ravenna’s opening Serie C match against Reggio Emilia on Monday, and there is still no clear indication of how often he will play during the season. His involvement will depend on his physical condition as well as decisions from the coaching staff and club leadership. Ravenna president Cipriani has expressed hope that the legendary forward could even score what would become the final goal of his professional career.

Ronaldinho last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015, bringing an end to a remarkable career that included spells at Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, AC Milan and other major clubs. He won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil and claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2005, establishing himself as one of football’s most gifted entertainers. His return with Ravenna is therefore less about chasing another major achievement and more about enjoying the game again while contributing his experience and star power to the Italian club.