Ronaldinho Joins Ravenna FC Amid Enthusiastic Fans
RAVENNA, Italy — Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldinho was officially introduced as the new No. 10 for Italian third-division club Ravenna on Thursday, marking a surprising return to competitive football over a decade after his retirement. The event, dubbed “Ronaldinho Day,” attracted around 6,000 fans despite intermittent rain, celebrating the player who is widely recognized as one of the greatest of all time.
The unveiling took place during a grand beachside ceremony, where the song “Hall of Fame” by The Script resonated through the crowd, underscoring the significance of Ronaldinho’s arrival. He was presented to the media before joining the festivities, where fans waved flags and held flares in a vibrant display of support.
Ronaldinho, now 46, signed with Ravenna in a surprising announcement made in June. He expressed his excitement about joining the club, stating, “I’m very happy to be here with my friends, but let’s wait and see if things go well with the team.” When asked about his potential playing time, he indicated uncertainty, saying, “I feel fine… it depends on the president and coach.”
Arriving via private jet at Forlì Airport, approximately 30 kilometers from Ravenna, Ronaldinho took a moment to sign soccer balls for airport staff before heading to the presentation. He was accompanied by Ravenna President Ignazio Cipriani, known for the Cipriani restaurant brand.
While Ronaldinho is not expected to play in Ravenna’s first Serie C match of the season against Reggio Emilia on Monday, Cipriani remarked that it is his dream for the legendary player to score his last professional goal with the club. Ronaldinho responded to this sentiment by saying, “If that happens even better, no? I’ve come here because of the friendship we have, and that’s it, let’s wait and see how the team does … I’m here to help.”
The former star last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015 and previously made a significant impact in Italy during his tenure with AC Milan from 2008 to 2011. Ronaldinho is also a World Cup winner with Brazil in 2002 and received the Ballon d’Or in 2005.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
