Ronaldinho, 46, emerges from retirement to join third-tier Italian club

Ronaldinho has remarkably ended his retirement from football at the age of 46, signing with a third-tier Italian club.

It was announced on Wednesday that the Brazilian legend will join Serie C side Ravenna FC, 11 years after he last played professionally.

Ronaldinho’s exact role at the club is unclear, however, and there is scepticism that he will actually take to the pitch for Ravenna. Still, he is set to be officially unveiled next week, and he did hint at a playing role.

“New colours, same smile,” he said. “I can’t wait to get back to dancing on the ball and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family.

“Football has always been a source of joy for me, and I want to bring that same spirit to Ravenna.”

Ravenna plays in the town of the same name, with its home matches taking place at Stadio Bruno Benelli. The town is located in northern Italy, along the coast and not far from Bologna.

Serie C consists of three divisions, and Ravenna finished their in their table last season.

Ronaldinho’s last spell at a pro club was with Fluminese, which ended in 2015 after previous stints at Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain among other teams.

The winger was present at Philadelphia Stadium on Friday as his nation beat Haiti 3-0 in a World Cup group game, building on their 1-1 draw with Morocco. Brazil are seeking their sixth World Cup trophy overall and first since 2002, when Ronaldinho was a winner.

As well as that trophy, Ronaldinho’s major triumphs were a Serie A title with AC Milan, and two La Liga titles and the Champions League at Barcelona.