Ronaldinho ends retirement to sign with Italian club Ravenna FC
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is currently underway in the United States, but attention has shifted to Europe as the football legend concludes his time away from the pitch.
Former Brazil international Ronaldinho has officially ended his retirement by signing with Italian club Ravenna FC, according to a report by Al Jazeera Global News on 24 June 2026. The 46-year-old football star, widely regarded as one of the most celebrated players of his generation, has returned to professional competition after a period of inactivity.
The announcement marks a significant shift for the Brazilian icon, who stepped away from the sport following a career defined by technical brilliance and global acclaim. By rejoining Ravenna FC, an Italian football club, Ronaldinho is reintegrating into the professional football structure, although the specific division or competitive level of the club has not been detailed in available reports.
This development occurs against the backdrop of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is currently taking place in the United States. The tournament features high-profile matches involving teams such as Argentina and Austria, with Lionel Messi and Argentina competing in the ongoing competition. The timing of Ronaldinho’s return coincides with a period of heightened global attention on the sport, though his move to Italy is distinct from the World Cup fixtures.
While the signing confirms Ronaldinho’s return to the game, details regarding his immediate involvement with Ravenna FC remain limited. The source material does not specify the exact date of the signing beyond the news report date, nor does it outline his planned role or physical preparation for the upcoming season.
The move highlights the enduring legacy of Ronaldinho, whose influence on the sport extends well beyond his active playing years. As he steps back onto the pitch at 46, the football world watches to see how this return to Ravenna FC will unfold, separate from the immediate narratives surrounding the ongoing World Cup in North America.
