Ronaldinho to make professional football return for Ravenna in Serie C derby

Football fans in Italy are preparing for a significant moment in Serie C as Ronaldinho Gaúcho is expected to make his professional return for Ravenna this Sunday. The 46-year-old Brazilian icon is set to feature in a local derby against Forlì at Stadio Benelli, with kickoff scheduled for 16:00 GMT (17:00 CET). The match will be available to a global audience via livestream on Sky Sport Italia and media reports UK.

The arrival of the former World Cup winner and Ballon d'Or winner marks a major chapter for Ravenna. The player arrived in Italy on Friday, November 14, 2026, via private jet, accompanied by Ravenna President Ignazio Cipriani and director Lorenzo Tonetti. To accommodate the heightened interest, the club has installed a temporary 1,800-seat stand, named the R10, at Stadio Benelli.

The Return of a Legend

Ronaldinho Gaúcho's journey back to professional football began on June 23, 2026, when the Brazilian signed a contract with Ravenna during a trip to Miami. While the move has generated significant conversation, the player has maintained a sense of levity regarding his capabilities. Following a social media post on Saturday, November 14, 2026, which showcased his ball control, the player joked that people might believe the footage was AI-generated.

Despite the spectacle surrounding his return, Ravenna's manager, Andrea Mandorlini, has provided a measured outlook on the player's involvement. Mandorlini stated that Ronaldinho is expected to play approximately thirty minutes during the upcoming fixture. This cautious approach comes as the club looks to maintain its strong position in the league; Ravenna is currently in second place in Serie C Girimento B.

The player's career has seen him represent some of the most prominent names in football, including Gremio, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Milan, Flamengo, Atletico Mineiro, and Queretaro. He previously retired from professional football in September 2015 after playing for Fluminense. More recently, his career has included a stint in the Kings League in 2023. His professional journey has also faced challenges, including a period where he spent 60 days in a Paraguayan prison in 2020 for using false documentation.

Context and Impact

The significance of this return extends beyond the pitch. Reports suggest the match will feature advertisements on the giant screens in Times Square, New York City, highlighting the global reach of the former star. With 299 total career goals recorded throughout his career, the impact of his presence on the pitch remains a point of interest for fans of the Italian third tier.

As Ravenna prepares to face Forlì, the focus remains on how the veteran's presence will influence their pursuit of the top spot in Serie C Girimento B. Whether he provides the creative spark needed to secure points in the derby or serves as a symbol of the club's ambitions, the return of Ronaldinho Gaúcho is undoubtedly the most significant story in the division this week.