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Ronaldinho makes comeback for Ravenna
Ronaldinho came out of retirement at 46 to play for Ravenna in their Italian third-tier derby against Forli, marking his first appearance since 2015. The former Brazil and Barcelona star helped create the opening goal, drawing attention to Ravenna’s high-profile new investor and the club’s attempt to build interest around the fixture.
He played the first half after training with the team once, the previous day, and was substituted at the break. The sold-out match was staged at the Stadio Bruno Benelli, where a temporary stand named the R10 was built and the game streamed internationally. Ronaldinho has scored 299 career goals; it is unclear whether he will play for Ravenna again.
In short
- Ronaldinho returned to football at 46 for Ravenna.
- He played the first half and helped set up the opening goal.
- The former star has 299 career goals.
Explained simply
Ronaldinho is a Brazilian former footballer who became one of the sport’s best-known players, winning major trophies with Barcelona and Brazil. He retired from professional football after a career that included spells at leading clubs in Europe and South America.
Ravenna and Forli are clubs in Italy’s third tier, below the country’s top two divisions. Their local derby is a match between nearby rivals, and can draw attention beyond the league because of the history between the teams and their supporters.
Ravenna’s new investor has brought added attention to the club as it seeks to build interest among fans. High-profile appearances and wider coverage can raise a smaller club’s profile, though it remains uncertain whether Ronaldinho will play for Ravenna again.