Ronaldinho signs for Ravenna in Serie C with playing return not ruled out

Brazil icon Ronaldinho has signed for Italian third-tier side Ravenna, more than a decade after his last professional appearance. The former Ballon d'Or winner, who spent two-and-a-half seasons with AC Milan and last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015, will be officially presented at an event in Miami on June 23.

Club officials initially suggested his role would be focused on marketing, with Ravenna vice-president Ariedo Braida saying: "Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us but will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season. Also because he’s 46, I wish he could still play." Braida later left the possibility open, adding: "Ronaldinho is a timeless champion...

Will he play? We’ll see, but it’s not ruled out." Ronaldinho expressed enthusiasm about joining the project, saying: "New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to be able to dance on the ball again to write a new story together with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family.

Italy, Ravenna

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