Ronaldinho leaves future open after emotional Ravenna comeback

Ronaldinho has not ruled out playing again after returning to official football for the first time in more than 11 years, completing 45 minutes for Italian third-tier side Ravenna in a memorable appearance against Forli.

The 46-year-old Ballon d’Or winner was named in Ravenna’s starting line-up for Sunday’s derby in round 14 of the Italian third tier, delighting supporters at the Bruno Benelli Stadium. The match attracted attention well beyond Italy, with the game also shown on a giant screen in New York’s Times Square.

Ronaldinho’s previous official appearance had come for Fluminense on 26 September 2015. According to Opta statistics, his return came after 11 years and 50 days, at the age of 46 years and 239 days.

Some had regarded his selection as a promotional move, but the former Brazil international did take to the pitch and received a warm reception from the crowd.

Ravenna manager Andrea Mandorlini, the former Inter Milan manager, used Ronaldinho as an inverted left winger in a 4-3-3 formation. He was given freedom to move into attacking areas behind the striker and operate between the lines, where his creativity could influence the game.

Ronaldinho had initially been expected to play for 30 minutes, but remained on the field until half-time. He first touched the ball in the sixth minute when taking a corner, gradually becoming more involved in the final third.

His most significant contribution came in the 36th minute. Ronaldinho was involved in the move that ended with Donati receiving the ball and striking a powerful low shot from outside the area into the Forli net to put Ravenna 1-0 ahead.

He celebrated the goal enthusiastically alongside his team-mates, while the crowd responded to the sight of the Brazilian enjoying competitive football once again.

Ronaldinho operated mainly in the space between midfield and attack and took three corners. One almost produced another goal when Donati met the delivery with a header towards the target. He left the pitch at half-time to a standing ovation.

Former Milan and Brazil team-mates Dida and Serginho were also present at the Bruno Benelli Stadium. Speaking to Sky Sport before kick-off, former Milan goalkeeper Dida praised the reception Ronaldinho received.

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

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 refused to dismiss another appearance.

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

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