Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho set for competitive return at 46
What's the story
Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho is set to return to competitive football after more than a decade. The 46-year-old, who last played in 2015, signed with Italian Serie C side Ravenna FC as both a player and a shareholder. His first match will be against Forli on November 15, where he hopes to score his 300th career goal. Here are further details.
Dual involvement
Dual role at Ravenna FC
Ronaldinho's return is special as he will play a dual role at Ravenna FC. He signed with the club in June and later bought a stake in it.
The team is owned by his friend Ignazio Cipriani.
This will be his first competitive match since September 2015, when he played for Brazilian club Fluminense.
Global anticipation
Global excitement for Ronaldinho's return
The news of Ronaldinho's return has sparked a global wave of excitement.
The Brazilian football icon officially announced his retirement in 2018, but the thought of seeing one of the most entertaining players in football history back on the field is nothing short of thrilling.
Ravenna FC confirmed the date for his comeback in October, ending months of speculation about whether he would actually play after joining earlier this year.
Milestone achievement
Ronaldinho's quest for his 300th career goal
Ronaldinho is also looking to achieve one last milestone with his return. He needs just one more to reach the 300 professional goals.
His return match against Forli at Stadio Bruno Benelli will be a perfect occasion for this much-anticipated moment.
The Brazilian expressed his excitement about returning to football after signing with Ravenna FC, saying he can't wait to "dance with the ball" and bring joy back into the game.
Career highlights
A look at his career
Ronaldinho, a household name in football, was part of Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup-winning team. He won the Ballon d'Or in 2005.
Across 97 international games for Brazil, Ronaldinho scored 33 goals. He also represented the side in two FIFA World Cups.
The 46-year-old played for top European clubs like Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Barcelona, and AC Milan.
In 207 appearances for Barcelona, Ronaldinho scored 94 goals.