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Brazilian legend Ronaldinho has created a huge stir in the football world after landing in Italy to formally join Serie C side Ravenna. The former Ballon d'Or winner, now 46, was welcomed by thousands of supporters, although it is still unclear whether he will genuinely come out of retirement to play in Italy's third division or remain only in an off-field capacity.

A hero's welcome on the Adriatic coast

Ronaldinho's trademark smile was on show once again as he arrived at Forli Airport on a private jet before heading to a glamorous presentation event in Ravenna. Thousands of fans turned up for a glimpse of the 2002 World Cup winner, who had previously dazzled Serie A during his spell with AC Milan. In spite of spells of rain, nearly 6,000 supporters waving flags and lighting flares generated a charged atmosphere for Ronaldinho's arrival, underlining that the legendary playmaker still commands enormous appeal even after a decade away from the professional game.

Speaking to media and fans gathered during the beachside ceremony, the Brazilian said he was delighted to be part of the ambitious project being driven by his friend and club president Ignazio Cipriani. "I'm very happy to be here with my friends, but let's wait and see if things go well with the team," Ronaldinho said. While his main reason for being in Italy is to back his friend's plans for the club, the experienced star also made it clear that his love for football remains his biggest motivation.

Will Ronaldinho actually play in Serie C?

The major point of intrigue is whether the 46-year-old will really step onto the pitch in competitive matches. Ravenna vice-president Ariedo Braida had first stated that the Brazilian had been brought in purely for marketing and would not be involved in Serie C games. However, he later softened that position and stopped short of dismissing the possibility of an extraordinary playing comeback.

When asked when fans might get to see him in action, the former Barcelona star stayed guarded and laughed before saying: "I feel fine. I don't know, it depends on the president and the coach. I don't know." The club has already confirmed that the Brazilian will not play in Monday's season opener against Reggiana.

Ravenna president Cipriani, who belongs to the well-known Cipriani restaurant brand, has lofty ambitions for this association. He admitted that he would love to see the Brazilian score the final goal of his career in a Ravenna shirt, and the player himself appeared open to that dream. "If that happens, it will be even more beautiful," Ronaldinho replied with a broad smile when the possibility of scoring again was put to him.

Strategic move for the Giallorossi

Apart from the possible impact on the pitch, this signing is a major declaration of ambition from a club currently playing in the third tier of Italian football. Bringing in a global superstar is intended to significantly raise the club's profile as it aims to move up the football ladder. Cipriani said the move was about far more than playing quality, explaining: "This was an operation to bring the whole city closer to the team. To create a fan base with lots of joy and excitement for this new season."

Writing a new story in Italy

For Ronaldinho, the move offers an opportunity to "dance on the ball again" and add an unusual final chapter to a career in which he has won almost every major trophy on offer. "New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to be able to dance on the ball again to write a new story together with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family. Football has always been a source of joy for me, I want to bring the same spirit to Ravenna," the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner had said earlier.

With the Serie C season getting under way, attention will now turn to the Bruno Benelli Stadium to find out whether the legend can still deliver flashes of brilliance. Whether he ends up acting as a mentor, a marketing figure, or a genuine attacking option, his presence alone has thrust Ravenna into the spotlight. For the moment, supporters are simply relishing the fact that one of the greatest players in football history has chosen their club for the final act of his story.