Ronaldinho's move to Ravenna is a marketing partnership, not a playing return, vice-president says

Initial buzz

On Thursday, Italian media reported that the 46-year-old Brazilian legend had ended his retirement to join Ravenna FC, a club in Italy's third division. Club vice-president Ariedo Braida told ANSA that Ronaldinho would be "tesserato" (registered) and called the move a "colpo straordinario" (extraordinary coup). The news quickly circulated internationally, with outlets suggesting he might play a single match or become a shareholder. Braida did not rule out an appearance: "Giocherà? Lo vedremo, ma non è escluso" (Will he play? We'll see, but it's not excluded).

A swift correction

By Friday, Braida walked back the playing talk. "Ronaldinho farà un evento di marketing con noi, ma non giocherà nel Ravenna nella prossima stagione," he clarified. Adding ruefully, "Magari fosse ancora in grado di giocare..." (If only he were still able to play). The partnership is a branding exercise, designed to raise the club's profile globally.

“Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us, but he will not play for Ravenna next season.”

The partnership details

Ronaldinho himself greeted the deal with enthusiasm, issuing a statement through Italian media.

“New colours, same smile. I can't wait to get back to dancing on the ball and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family.”

His exact role remains promotional: modelling the new kit, attending club events, and possibly an exhibition match. Brazilian media reported he would be introduced as a "shareholder" of Ravenna. The club's owner, hotel chain magnate Ignazio Cipriani, is a long-time friend of the former star.

Miami unveiling

The formal announcement is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, in Miami, where Cipriani will present the partnership. The timing coincides with Ronaldinho's role as an ambassador at the World Cup; on Friday he was photographed alongside Ronaldo watching Brazil beat Haiti 3-0 in Philadelphia. Vice-president Braida will not attend: "Fa troppo caldo per un viaggio così" (It's too hot for such a trip), he joked.

A legendary name

Ronaldinho last played professionally in 2015 for Fluminense and officially retired in 2018. His glittering career includes a World Cup (2002), Champions League (2006), two La Liga titles, and a Serie A title. His fame now extends into music, with 91 songs registered as a composer in Brazil. For Ravenna, a club that narrowly missed promotion to Serie B last season, the association with a two-time FIFA World Player of the Year is a clear marketing boost, even without him on the pitch.