Ronaldinho is making a stunning return to professional football at 46. The Brazilian legend plans to sign with Ravenna, an Italian third-division club.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, he's finalizing terms in Miami on Tuesday. A source involved in talks confirmed the news to AFP.
The former World Cup winner and Ballon d'Or holder expressed his excitement about the move. "I can't wait to get back dancing with the ball again," he told the Italian outlet.
He added that football has always brought him joy. "I want to bring the same spirit to Ravenna," the ex-Barcelona and PSG star noted.
Ravenna vice-president Ariedo Braida sounded less certain about actual playing time. He acknowledged Ronaldinho's star power as commercially valuable for the club.
"He's a magical player who will be registered," Braida told Italian media. "Will he play at 46?
That depends, but he'll be registered."
It's been nearly a decade since Ronaldinho last kicked a ball professionally. His last club was Fluminense, where he spent two months in 2015.
His career included a World Cup triumph with Brazil and Champions League glory with Barcelona. Few players have matched his impact on the beautiful game.
