Ronaldinho backs Endrick to shine in Italy and hails ‘world’s best’ Ancelotti

Ronaldinho believes Endrick has the ability to succeed at any club in the world and would be a major addition to either Milan or Roma if he leaves Real Madrid during the January transfer window.

The former Brazil, Barcelona and Milan forward was speaking to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport about the 20-year-old’s future, amid reports linking him with a move to one of Italy’s two clubs.

Endrick has struggled for regular first-team opportunities at Real Madrid this season. He has made seven appearances in all competitions, scoring once – against Roma.

But Ronaldinho is confident the young striker could make an impact in Serie A, regardless of which club he joined.

“Of course, he can play anywhere in the world,” Ronaldinho said. “He has had experiences in several leagues and performed well in France, Brazil and Spain. He is still very young and has the ability to succeed.”

Ronaldinho is also preparing to return to competitive football, more than 10 years after his last official appearance.

The 46-year-old has joined Italian third-tier side Ravenna and is expected to play in their local derby against Forli. He arrived in Italy on Friday and took part in his first training session with his new team-mates ahead of the fixture.

It is expected that Ronaldinho will play for at least 30 minutes.

The appearance forms part of a wider commercial partnership with Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani, but will also mark an unusual return to official competition for the former Brazil international. His last competitive match came in 2015.

Ronaldinho also offered a strong endorsement of Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, saying he was convinced the Italian could deliver major achievements with the national team.

“He is the best manager in the world and I am sure he will achieve great things,” Ronaldinho said.

Ancelotti became Brazil head coach in May 2025 and led the team at last summer’s World Cup. Brazil were eliminated in the last 16 after losing to Norway, meaning they failed to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1990.

The Italian’s contract with Brazil runs until 2030, meaning he is expected to remain in charge for the next edition of the World Cup.