Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has arrived in Italy after joining Serie C side Ravenna FC, with the 46-year-old refusing to rule out a return to competitive football.
The 2002 World Cup winner landed at Forli airport around midday on Thursday ahead of Ravenna’s squad presentation.
Ronaldinho’s move to the Italian third-tier club was announced in June. He has also taken a stake in the club, which is owned by his friend Ignazio Cipriani.
The former Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan star last played competitively for Fluminense in 2015. He is now part of Cipriani’s ambitious project to take Ravenna to Italy’s top flight for the first time.
“This was an operation to bring the whole city closer to the team,” Cipriani told reporters on Thursday.
“To create a fan base with lots of joy and excitement for this new season.”
Cipriani confirmed that Ronaldinho will not feature in Ravenna’s season opener away to Reggiana on Monday.
However, the Brazilian left the door open when asked whether he could eventually pull on Ravenna’s shirt and score what would be the 300th goal of his career.
“If that happens, it will be even more beautiful,” Ronaldinho replied with a wide smile.
“I don’t know, that depends on the president, on the trainer. I came here because of the friendship we have. We’ll wait for the squad to do well. I’m here to help.”
The former Ballon d’Or winner’s arrival has already generated excitement around Ravenna, although it remains unclear whether his involvement will extend beyond his role as an investor and ambassador for the club.
