Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho is preparing for a remarkable return to the pitch on Sunday, 11 years after his retirement. The 46-year-old, who last played for Fluminense in 2015, will start for Italian third-tier side Ravenna in their local derby against Forli.
Ronaldinho expressed his excitement to Sky Sports on Friday, stating, “Returning to the pitch after so much time is truly beautiful – I’m here to experience a special moment in my life.” He added that he is happy to be part of Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani's dream of taking the club to Serie A for the first time.
The team's Stadio Bruno Benelli, which typically accommodates 5,000 fans, is completely sold out for the occasion. A temporary stand with an additional 1,800-capacity, dubbed “R10,” has also been erected to accommodate the anticipated crowd. Ravenna currently sits second in their Serie C group, six points behind leaders Spezia.