Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has delighted fans with a glimpse of his enduring brilliance after making a surprise return to professional football following an 11-year retirement.
The 46-year-old former Barcelona and AC Milan star came out of retirement to feature for Italian Serie C side Ravenna in their league encounter against Forli, where he made an immediate impact by helping his team create the opening goal.
Ronaldinho, who won the 2005 Ballon d’Or, started the encounter and demonstrated that his trademark technique and vision remain intact despite spending more than a decade away from professional football.
After a relatively balanced opening 30 minutes, Giuli Donati broke the deadlock with a superb strike. Ronaldinho was involved in the build-up, producing a quick pass that helped create the opportunity for the goal.
The Brazilian also took responsibility for set-pieces and came close to registering an assist when his accurately delivered corner was met with a header that crashed against the Forli crossbar.
Although he appeared relatively immobile during the first half, his technical ability and composure on the ball caught the attention of spectators, many of whom took to social media to celebrate his return.
Reacting to his performance, one fan wrote, “The Ronaldinho effect,” while another remarked, “Class is permanent.”
Others praised his enduring quality, with one supporter commenting that his technique had not deserted him, describing the occasion as football nostalgia in real time.
Ronaldinho was substituted at half-time after completing 45 minutes, during which he recorded an 81 per cent passing accuracy and made four passes into the final third. However, he did not register any defensive contribution.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia after the game, the former Barcelona playmaker expressed delight at being back on the pitch and did not rule out another appearance.
“It went by too fast, that has always been football for me,” he said.
Asked whether it would be his final appearance, Ronaldinho replied: “I don’t know, if the President keeps calling me, I will come back! It is always a pleasure.
“I told the President, if he needs me, then I will be here.
“It was lovely to be here, playing, having the build-up in the dressing room. Football has always been the most wonderful thing in my life.”
Ronaldinho completed his move to Ravenna last week and is also a shareholder in the Italian club.
The Brazilian retired from professional football in 2015 after a spell with Fluminense, bringing an end to a celebrated career that saw him become one of the most entertaining and gifted players of his generation.
