Ronaldinho prepares unexpected return to Serie C with Ravenne

Under the sun of a cool November in Ravenna, the Bruno Benelli stadium is set to host an unprecedented spectacle: Ronaldinho, the 46‑year‑old Brazilian icon, will step onto the pitch for the first time in more than a decade, facing Forlì in a Serie C derby.

The Italian club from Ravenna announced that Ronaldinho will wear its jersey on November 15, during the highly anticipated derby against neighbours Forlì. The match will be played at the Bruno Benelli stadium, a venue chosen to highlight the player's return.

This will be the Brazilian's first official appearance since his departure from Fluminense in 2015, ending an 11‑year absence from professional football. At 46, he puts on his boots again after more than a decade without official competition.

A transfer that shakes Serie C

Ravenna completed a surprise transfer in June, securing the services of the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner. The arrival of the world champion has sent a shockwave through the lower Italian divisions.

Ronaldinho's return to Ravenna promises to revive Serie C

So far, Ronaldinho has not played any official match with the Serie C team. He has appeared only once, at a presentation ceremony on the beach of Marina di Ravenna in August, after an initial announcement made in Miami.

In an official statement, the club said: “It’s an appointment that will shine the world’s spotlights on the Bruno Benelli stadium.”

Ronaldinho returns to competitive football in Italy with Ravenna

The club added that the football world thought it was too good to be true, but it can now confirm the grand return of the magic, the smile and a talent that has fascinated generations of supporters, regardless of their allegiances.