Ronaldinho to Return to Football at 46 as Italian Club Ravenna Confirm November 15 Debut

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho is set to return to the pitch at the age of 46, more than a decade after retiring from professional football. The former Barcelona and AC Milan star is scheduled to feature for Italian third-division club Ravenna in their derby clash against Forli on Sunday, November 15, 2026.

Ravenna confirmed the date on Saturday, months after announcing in June that the 2002 FIFA World Cup winner would join the club. "The wait now has a date: Sunday, November 15," the club said in a statement.

"The Brazilian legend will wear the Ravenna FC shirt in the derby against Forli. An event that will turn the eyes of the world toward the Bruno Benelli Stadium.

Ronaldinho, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2005, retired from professional football in 2015 after an illustrious career with several top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan. The Brazilian icon is also a shareholder in Ravenna.

His planned appearance is expected to give him another opportunity to pursue his target of scoring his 300th career goal. Ravenna currently sit second in Group B of Italy's third division, six points behind league leaders Spezia.

The club are aiming to secure promotion to Serie B for the first time since 2008, with Ronaldinho's anticipated appearance expected to generate additional excitement around their campaign. His return would mark a notable moment for the former world footballer of the year, whose creativity, dribbling skills and achievements made him one of the most celebrated players of his generation.

The November 15 fixture against Forli is expected to attract considerable attention from football fans eager to see the Brazilian legend back in action."