Ronaldinho named in Ravenna starting XI for first competitive match in 11 years

Ronaldinho is set to return to competitive football at the age of 46 after being named in Ravenna’s starting line-up for their Serie C meeting with Forli on Sunday, 15 November 2026.

The former Brazil international will wear the number 10 shirt and is expected to start on the left side of a front three in Ravenna’s 4-3-3 formation, according to Football Italia.

Ronaldinho retired in 2015 after his final professional spell with Brazilian club Fluminense. More than a decade later, he has returned to the game through Ravenna, with the Italian third-tier side confirming his involvement in the local derby.

Ravenna manager Andrea Mandorlini said before kick-off that Ronaldinho would start the match. Mandorlini explained that his team normally plays with three forwards and that the Brazilian would be one of them.

The manager added that Ronaldinho’s playing time would be decided during the match in consultation with the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner, given the length of time he has spent away from competitive football.

Ronaldinho joined Ravenna’s project during the summer in an arrangement that combined a sporting role with investment in the club. As part of the agreement, he had promised to play in at least one competitive fixture for the team.

The match against Forli is being played in the 14th round of Serie C and has attracted considerable attention because it marks the return of one of the most recognisable players in world football.

Ronaldinho is also aiming to score the 300th goal of his career during the match, adding another milestone to an unusual comeback at an age when he has been away from the professional game for many years.

Ravenna’s starting XI is: Venturi in goal; Donati, Zaro, Esposito and Bani in defence; Lunardi, Vinicius and Duca in midfield; and Da Pozzo, Rabi and Ronaldinho in attack.

The Brazilian’s appearance represents his first competitive outing in more than 11 years, despite his retirement following his time at Fluminense. His return brings him back into an official match environment as part of Ravenna’s wider sporting and investment project.

Ravenna face Forli in a derby fixture on Sunday evening, with Ronaldinho’s inclusion confirmed before the start. The former Barcelona and Brazil star is expected to take his place on the left of the attack, while the duration of his participation will be determined during the contest.