Ronaldinho's Italian signing raises hopes, but playing future unclear

Ronaldinho arrived in Italia on Thursday, signing for Serie C (Tercera) club Ravenna, yet the 46‑year‑old former Barcelona, PSG and Milan star has not confirmed whether he will return to the pitch. His move follows a June announcement and comes as the club prepares for its season opener.

High‑profile signing for Ravenna

The transfer, announced in June, sees 46‑year‑old Ronaldinho – a former Barcelona, PSG and Milan attacker and the 2005 Balón Oro winner – join the Ravena side of Serie C (Tercera). His last official match was with Fluminense in 2015, and the club is owned by his friend Ignazio Cipriani.

Ronaldinho has taken a shareholding in Ravenna, but he declined to confirm whether he will lace up the shirt or chase the milestone 300th career goal. When asked, he remained evasive about his on‑field intentions.

Cipriani confirmed that Ronaldinho will sit out the season‑opening fixture on Monday against Reggiana, meaning he will not feature in the inaugural match of the campaign. The club will therefore begin its Serie C (Tercera) campaign without the Brazilian star.

Unclear playing role ahead of season

Ronaldinho responded to questions with a wide smile. He said, “I don’t know, that depends on the president and the coach. I have come here because of the friendship that binds us. We will wait for the team to perform well. I am here to help.”

The announcement was accompanied by an AP Photo/Luca Bruno)Luca, credited to BrunoMUNDO, with Luca and Bruno noted as the photographers.

Cipriani hopes the investment will propel Ravenna to Serie A for the first time in the club’s history, turning the Serie C (Tercera) side into a top‑flight contender.

The juxtaposition of a global icon’s arrival and his ambiguous playing future underscores that Ronaldinho’s move is as much about symbolism as it is about on‑field contribution.