Ronaldinho is excited to get back in action with his new job at a third-tier club.
Ronaldinho is making a comeback to club football, but not in the way most people might think. Instead of playing on the field, he’s joining a third-tier Italian club in a different role.
Fans would love to see the Brazilian star show off his skills like he did back in the 2000s, but those days are behind the 46-year-old now. Ronaldinho has signed with Serie C team Ravenna to help the club off the pitch, working on marketing and becoming a part-owner to help grow the team.
He’ll be officially introduced at an event in Miami on June 23. After the announcement, Ronaldinho said, “New colors, same smile. I can’t wait to get back to dancing on the ball and writing a new story with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family. Football has always brought me joy, and I want to share that with Ravenna.”
Ronaldinho isn’t new to Italian football; he played for AC Milan and helped them win the Serie A title in 2011. Although Ravenna is currently in Serie C, this exciting new approach could help the club climb higher. Owner Ignazio Cipriani is thrilled about Ronaldinho’s involvement.
“I spent 24 years in the United States but still feel at home in Ravenna. Signing Ronaldinho is amazing for the club. He was my idol, and his influence goes far beyond just playing,” Cipriani said. “He will help with marketing, but he won’t be playing for Ravenna next season.
“I wish he could still play. Dinho was incredible and a fantastic player. I’ve got a great relationship with him from our Milan days, but he won’t suit up for Serie C with us.”
Ronaldinho will join the team for preseason training, but no one expects him to make a big return to professional football. The Ballon d’Or winner retired years ago, playing his last pro game in 2015 with Fluminense in Brazil.
Recently, Ronaldinho was seen cheering on Brazil during their 3-0 win over Haiti, helping his country get closer to topping Group C in the World Cup.