Football Legend Ronaldinho Signs Deal With Italy’s Ravenna FC

Former Brazil international and football great Ronaldinho has agreed a deal with Italian Serie C outfit Ravenna FC in a move that has surprised football fans around the world.

Ronaldinho, now 46, retired from professional football in 2015 after a brief spell with Brazilian club Fluminense, having enjoyed a glittering career with teams including Barcelona and AC Milan.

The former Ballon d’Or winner is scheduled to be unveiled by Ravenna during a special event in Miami next week.

The announcement triggered speculation that the 2002 FIFA World Cup winner could be preparing for a dramatic return to football, but club officials have insisted that the Brazilian will not play for the team next season.

Reacting to the partnership, Ronaldinho said he was excited to begin a new chapter with the club.

“New colours, same smile. 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,” he said.

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

Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani hailed the development as a major boost for the club, describing Ronaldinho as his childhood hero.

“Acquiring Ronaldinho is absolutely extraordinary for the club. He was my idol and his impact on football goes beyond what he did on the pitch,” Cipriani stated.

Ravenna honorary vice-president Ariedo Braida later clarified that Ronaldinho’s involvement would be limited to promotional and marketing activities.

“Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us, but he won’t play for Ravenna in Serie C next season,” Braida said.

“I wish he were still able to play. Dinho was a phenomenon and a wonderful player.”

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