Brazilian Football Legend Ronaldinho to Make Surprise Return on 15 November

Arguably one of the greatest football players of all time, the Brazilian icon Ronaldinho is all set to play in Italy’s third division next month, more than a decade after hanging his boots from professional football.

The 46-year-old superstand completed a surprising move from Serie C outfit Ravenna in June, though he is yet to feature. On Friday, the club officials confirmed that the former Brazilian international will make his debut against Forli on November 15, 2026.

In the club’s words, the match that will feature Ronaldinho is an event set to turn the world’s gaze towards the Stadio Bruno Benelli. In an official statement Ravenna said, “The whole soccer world thought it too good to be true, instead we can now officially confirm a grand return: The return of magic, the smile and a talent that has captivated generations of fans, regardless of their team loyalties or soccer allegiances.”

The club is run by Ignazio Cipriani, of the Cipriani restaurant brand, who has stated his dream is for the Brazilian to score for the final score of his career for Ravenna. Ronaldinho was introduced to the supporters of the club at a beachside unveiling in August, shortly after the season began.

“From the announcement in Miami to the warm welcome from fans on the beach in Marina di Ravenna, the anticipation has grown significantly, fuelled by a mix of curiosity, excitement and disbelief,” said Ravenna. The vision of Cipriani, which ignited the fans’ imagination and sparked a debate beyond Italy now has a concrete date. Ronaldinho will play at the Benelli, starting a new chapter.

The comeback to Ravenna will mark Ronaldinho’s second spell in Italian football, since he represented AC Milan from 2008 to 2011. He also played for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Barcelona during his decorated career that featured a World Cup win with Brazil in 2002 and the ultimate glory in football, the Ballon d’Or in 2005.