Ravenna’s bold gamble: Ronaldinho signs at 46 for Serie C
Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, 46, arrived in Italy on Thursday as a registered player for Serie C side Ravenna, the club that stunned fans this summer by signing the former star. The move follows the club’s high‑profile recruitment drive and raises questions about his on‑field role.
Update: the Italian club, which competes in Serie C, stunned the football world this summer with the signing of the Brazilian legend. De club announced that the deal would be finalized before the start of the season. Ravenna’s owners presented the deal as part of an ambitious plan to raise the club’s profile. The signing marks the first time a player of Ronaldinho’s stature has joined a Serie C side.
It remains unclear what exact role Ronaldinho will play or how many minutes he might see on the pitch. Club officials have not disclosed whether he will feature regularly or serve primarily as a figurehead.
Unclear role and club statements
Vice chairman Ariedo Braida initially told reporters that Ronaldinho would not take part in the competition, describing his presence as a marketing event. ‘He is 46, I would love for him to still be able to play,’ Braida said, adding that he did not expect the legend to feature. He later softened his stance, stating, ‘We will see, it is not excluded,’ leaving open the possibility of on‑field involvement.
Ronaldinho is officially registered for Serie C, meaning he is eligible to make appearances. The club hopes to get him onto the field at least once, though the sporting benefit remains uncertain.
It has been almost eleven years since Ronaldinho’s last club appearance, which came for Fluminense. Many observers view his arrival as a marketing stunt designed to boost ticket sales and media attention.
Marketing motives and ownership
Ravenna was taken over in 2024 by Ignazio Cipriani, a member of a well‑known Italian restaurant family. The acquisition is part of an international expansion strategy that includes partnerships with brands such as Nike.
Upon his arrival, Ronaldinho said he was ‘convinced by the passion and friendship’ he felt at the club. He noted a long‑standing friendship with owner Cipriani and recalled working with Ariedo Braida at AC Milan, where Braida served as technical director at the San Siro.
Ronaldinho’s reflections and past
‘I am happy to be here, with friends. We hope it will be a beautiful time for this club. I am here to help, to get other players excited and to have a great season and win,’ Ronaldinho declared. This is his second contract with an Italian club; he previously played for AC Milan between 2008 and 2011, winning the Scudetto. Reflecting on his Milan days, he said, ‘That was a great time. I have many beautiful moments, but my favourite may still be my goal in the derby.’