Football legend Ronaldinho is set to make his first competitive start in more than a decade when Italian third-tier side Ravenna face local rivals Forli on Sunday. The former Ballon d’Or winner, now 46, has not played a professional match since turning out for Brazilian club Fluminense in September 2015. Meanwhile, the veteran playmaker joined Ravenna as an investor in August before deciding to pull on his boots once again.
- Ronaldinho will start as one of three forwards for Ravenna against Forli on Sunday.
- Manager Andrea Mandorlini confirmed the Brazilian icon will play from the opening whistle.
- The former Barcelona star aims to score the final goal of his career to reach 300.
- Club officials installed a temporary stand at Stadio Bruno Benelli to host extra fans.
Match Situation and Expected Debut
Manager Andrea Mandorlini confirmed on Friday that Ronaldinho would feature in the starting lineup despite arriving in Italy only a day before kickoff. Also, the coach stated that they would evaluate the forward’s physical condition during the match to manage his playing time. Furthermore, teammate Simone Rabbi revealed that the World Cup winner will take any penalties awarded during the game.
Because the club currently sits second in the Serie C table after thirteen matches, manager Mandorlini insists the selection is purely tactical. However, the unexpected comeback has generated massive excitement across the region. As a result, packed stands are expected at the stadium as fans rush to witness the maestro in action once again.
Career Legacy and Final Goal Ambition
Club owner Ignazio Cipriani explained that the romantic comeback is driven by a desire to reach a personal career milestone. Earlier this year, club officials emphasized that the signing is not merely a marketing stunt. Instead, the legendary attacker wants to secure his 300th career goal before hanging up his boots for good.
Later, supporters hoping to catch a glimpse of the great playmaker flooded ticket offices following the official announcement. Although his peak years at Barcelona and AC Milan are long behind him, the forward’s magic still captivates the sporting world. Eventually, Sunday’s fixture will reveal whether the famous number ten can deliver one last magical moment on the pitch.
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