Ronaldinho is set for an unlikely return to professional football with Ravenna, the Italian third-tier club looking to turn one of the game’s most recognisable names into both a sporting event and a broader commercial statement.
Described by Ravenna in its official announcement as part of a wider project led by Ignazio Cipriani and investment partner Black Duck, the deal will see the 46-year-old Brazilian registered as a player rather than merely appointed as an ambassador. The club says he is expected to wear Ravenna colours when he takes the field next season.
A symbolic signing with sporting intent
Ronaldinho has not been a regular professional footballer for years, but Ravenna is presenting the move as more than a ceremonial appearance. The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Brazil forward has set himself the personal target of ending his career with one more goal, this time in a Ravenna shirt.
“New colors, same smile,” Ronaldinho said in the club announcement, adding: “Let the magic begin!”
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According to Gill Clark in Barca Blaugranes, Cipriani has said Ronaldinho will not join Ravenna’s pre-season camp, but is due at the team presentation on August 21 and is expected to appear in “at least one league match.” The exact date has not been decided, though Cipriani said it would be a home fixture.
R10 and a broader Ravenna project
The agreement also carries a significant commercial dimension. Cipriani has said Ronaldinho wants to launch his R10 brand through Ravenna, with the Italian club becoming the first team associated with the apparel project.
Ravenna’s own announcement places the move within a larger push into football, culture, fashion and international marketing. The club, acquired in 2024 by Cipriani together with Black Duck, has been working to raise its profile beyond the pitch, including through a new kit launch, a Miami presentation event and a charitable element connected to Street Soccer USA.
A final flourish in Italy
For Ravenna, the signing offers visibility far beyond Serie C. For Ronaldinho, it is being framed as a final chapter built around joy rather than routine competition.
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His role will extend into the club’s wider project, but Ravenna’s message is clear: this is not just a nostalgic photo opportunity. Ronaldinho will be registered as a player, with the hope that his last professional goal comes in Ravenna colours.
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