Official: Ronaldinho joins Ravenna as a player at age 46

Serie C side Ravenna have confirmed that ex-Milan star Ronaldinho has returned to Italian football and signed for them as a player at the age of 46. ‘I can’t wait to dance with the ball again.’

The Brazilian legend had seemingly hung up his boots for good, as his last contract with Fluminense was terminated in September 2015.

It was announced over the last few days that he was going to be signing on with Ravenna, but it wasn’t clear whether this was a purely promotional role or as a player.

Now the club has formally announced that Ronaldinho will be part of their squad, despite the fact he turned 46 in March.

“New colours, same smile,” said Ronaldinho on the official Ravenna website.

“I can’t wait to dance with the ball again and write a new, wonderful story along with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family. Football has always been joy for me and I am enthusiastic about bringing this spirit to Ravenna.

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There will be a presentation in Miami on June 23 at a VIP dinner for 70 guests, then an after-party of 250 invited figures.

It will also see the unveiling of the new official kit for next season, which is already available to buy with Ronaldinho’s name and Number 10, and a four-year contract with Nike.

The Brazilian won the Ballon d’Or, the World Cup, and had experiences with the likes of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Flamengo, playing for Milan from 2008 to 2011.

This move is the brainchild of owner Ignazio Cipriani, who was born in Ravenna and spent over two decades in the USA making his fortune, then returned to revitalise his hometown club.

They are in Serie C, the third division of Italian football, and have former Milan chief Ariedo Braida as one of the directors.