Ronaldinho hints at possible return after 45-minute comeback for Ravenna

Ronaldinho has left the door open to playing again after making an emotional return to competitive football at the age of 46.

The Brazilian, who had been absent from official matches for more than 11 years, played the first half for Ravenna in their derby against Forli in Serie C on Sunday, 22 November 2026. His appearance attracted worldwide attention, with the match even shown on a giant screen in New York’s Times Square.

Ronaldinho’s last competitive appearance came for Fluminense on 26 September 2015. Opta said his return came after 11 years and 50 days, at the age of 46 years and 239 days.

He was named in Ravenna’s starting line-up at the Bruno Benelli stadium, ending uncertainty over whether his involvement would be purely a promotional appearance. Former Inter Milan manager Andrea Mandorlini selected him on the left side of a 4-3-3 formation, where he was given freedom to move behind the striker and operate between the lines.

The original plan was for Ronaldinho to play for 30 minutes, but he remained on the pitch until half-time. He first touched the ball in the sixth minute when taking a corner, before gradually becoming more involved in Ravenna’s attacking play.

He played a part in the opening goal in the 36th minute. After the ball reached Donati, the midfielder struck a powerful low shot from outside the penalty area to give Ravenna a 1-0 lead over Forli.

Ronaldinho celebrated enthusiastically with his team-mates and the supporters. He focused mainly on creating opportunities from the spaces behind the striker and delivered three corners, one of which nearly produced another goal when Donati headed towards the target.

Ravenna’s defensive work was occasionally exposed because Ronaldinho was not given significant defensive responsibilities, but the focus remained on the former Ballon d’Or winner’s return. He received a standing ovation when he left the field at half-time.

Two former team-mates, Dida and Serginho, were also at the Bruno Benelli stadium. Speaking to Sky Sport before kick-off, former Milan goalkeeper Dida praised the reception for Ronaldinho.

“The atmosphere is fantastic. He deserves all of this because he was an incredible player who was able to entertain us,” Dida said. “Because of his passion for life, he was also an inspiration to us, his team-mates.”

Asked about Neymar’s description of Ronaldinho as the greatest showman in football history, Dida replied: “He is right. I think exactly the same.”

Ronaldinho told Sky Italia that the 45 minutes had passed quickly and did not rule out another appearance.

“Those 45 minutes went by very quickly. It has always been that way for me in football,” he said. “Will I return? I do not know yet. I have not ruled it out; it depends on the president. If he calls me, I will return. Playing makes me happy.”

“Reliving those moments in the dressing room and experiencing it all again was wonderful. Football is the most beautiful thing I have had in my life,” he added.