Ronaldinho is set to make a return to club football, but not as a player, as he joins Italian third-tier club Ravenna as a stakeholder.
## What happened?
The 46-year-old Brazilian legend has signed a deal to work with Ravenna on marketing and will be unveiled at an event in Miami on June 23.
Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani is delighted with the move, having idolized Ronaldinho during his playing days.
## Why it matters for Ronaldinho
This new role marks a new chapter in Ronaldinho's career, as he looks to bring his football expertise and marketing skills to help grow the club.
Ronaldinho spoke about the deal, saying: “New colours, same smile. I can’t wait to get back to dancing on the ball and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family.”
## What comes next?
Ronaldinho will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season, but will join the squad for preseason training.
The Ballon d’Or winner retired from professional football in 2015, with his last game coming with Brazilian club Fluminense.
And Ronaldinho was seen in attendance at the Brazil and Haiti game, watching his nation emerge as a 3-0 winner.
So the Brazilian legend is still involved in the sport he loves, even if it's not as a player.
Ronaldinho's impact on football goes beyond what he did on the pitch, according to Cipriani.
The Italian top flight may seem a long way off for Ravenna, but this ambitious strategy may see them move towards this division.
Ronaldinho's marketing expertise will be invaluable in helping the club grow and attract new fans.
But for now, Ronaldinho is focused on his new role and is excited to get started.
The event in Miami on June 23 will be a great opportunity for Ronaldinho to meet the fans and talk about his new venture.
Ronaldinho's smile is still infectious, and his love for the game is still evident.