Ronaldinho is set to return to the field for Ravenna, an Italian third-division club he joined in 2026 as both a player and investor. His deal is built around marketing and special appearances—not a regular playing schedule—with one personal ambition: to score one last professional goal. The 46-year-old is expected to play in Sunday’s home derby against Forli.

By the Numbers
  • Ronaldinho last played a professional match in 2015 and announced his retirement in 2018.
  • He won the 2005 Ballon d’Or and the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.
  • The derby is scheduled for Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m. ET.
Yes, But

This is not a conventional comeback: Ronaldinho is not expected to play every week. His return combines a high-profile appearance with commercial goals and an ownership stake in Ravenna.

State of Play
  • Ravenna was acquired in 2024 by Ignazio Cipriani, whose business group operates luxury hospitality and real estate ventures.
  • Club leaders have connections to Ronaldinho’s AC Milan years, helping bring the former star into the project.
  • The derby against Forli is expected to be Ronaldinho’s first appearance for Ravenna.
What's Next

Ronaldinho could make a cameo in the derby, with future appearances likely to be selective and tied to the club’s marketing strategy. Whether he scores his hoped-for final professional goal remains to be seen.

Bottom Line

Ronaldinho’s Ravenna return is part sporting spectacle, part business venture—and a chance for a legend to chase one last goal on the professional stage.