Brazil football icon Ronaldinho has reportedly come out of retirement, completing a shock move to Italy's third-tier club Ravenna in Serie C, more than a decade after his last professional appearance.
Uncertain Role at Ravenna
Club officials initially suggested that Ronaldinho's role would be limited to marketing purposes, but since then, they have refused to rule out the possibility of the 46-year-old Brazil legend gracing the football pitch again, as per Goal.com.
Presentation Event in Miami
As per Gazzetta, quoted by Goal.com, the former Ballon d'Or winner is set to be presented as the newest member of the club at Miami on June 23 during a special event.
The deal marks a return to Italy for the FC Barcelona icon, who appeared for AC Milan from 2008 to 2011. Since his last professional appearance for Fluminense in 2015, Ronaldinho has been a regular at exhibition and legend football matches. Now, he is returning to a professional club environment for Ravenna under coach Andrea Mandorlini.
Club Vice-President's Statements
Questions quickly emerged about what Ronaldinho's role would be, besides promotional and marketing duties. The club's vice-president, Ariedo Braida, initially suggested the Brazilian would not feature in Serie C matches.
He said as per Goal.com: "Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us, but will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season. Also, because he is 46, I wish he could still play."
But later, the VP left the door open for a potential return to the pitch. Speaking to ANSA, as quoted by Goal.com, he said: "Ronaldinho is a timeless champion. He has signed with Ravenna and, for a club like ours, it's an extraordinary coup. Over the next few days, there will be an event to unveil this extraordinary character. Will he play? We'll see, but it's not ruled out. As I already said, he is a timeless champion."
Ronaldinho's Excitement
Despite the uncertainty about what exactly Ronaldinho will be doing with the club, the footballer is immensely excited to be joining. The UEFA Champions League winner with Barcelona and the 2002 FIFA World Cup winner with Brazil is eager to bring his "Joga Bonito" philosophy to the club.
"New colours, same smile," Ronaldinho said. "I cannot wait to be able to dance on the ball again to write a new story together with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family. Football has always been a source of joy for me, I want to bring the same spirit to Ravenna."
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