Sport · Malaysia Bureau
Ronaldinho returns to football at 46 with Italian third-division club
The legendary Brazilian midfielder has ended his retirement to join Ravenna in Italy's third tier, eight years after hanging up his boots. The former Barcelona star is pursuing his 300th career goal in what marks a surprising comeback at the twilight of his career.
LSN Malaysia ·
Ronaldinho, the 46-year-old former Brazil international and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, has made an unexpected return to professional football with Italian third-division side Ravenna. The move marks his comeback to competitive play following his retirement in 2015, when he left the sport after stints with various clubs including AC Milan and Flamengo.
The iconic midfielder, known for his technical brilliance and entertaining style of play during his peak years at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, will be looking to add to his career goal tally. With reportedly 299 goals across his playing career, Ronaldinho appears motivated by the prospect of achieving a symbolic 300th goal before his final retirement.
Ravenna, currently competing in Italy's Serie C, confirmed the signing of the Brazilian legend as it continues its campaign in the third-tier division. The arrangement allows Ronaldinho to continue his football journey while competing at a level suited to his current fitness and playing ability.
The comeback underscores Ronaldinho's enduring passion for the sport that made him a global icon. His return to the pitch, though unconventional given his age and previous retirement, demonstrates the player's desire to experience football once more, albeit in a different capacity than his illustrious prime years.