Ronaldo, 46, signs for Italian third-tier club Ravenna and takes stake in the team

ROME — Brazilian forward Ronaldo, 46, has signed for Italian third-division side Ravenna and also become a shareholder of the club, returning to professional football more than a decade after his last appearance. The 2002 World Cup winner and 2005 Ballon d'Or recipient was officially presented at a "Ronaldo Day" event on the beach, greeting thousands of fans after arriving in the city. Ronaldo signed a partnership agreement with Ravenna alongside his sporting contract, taking a stake in the club. The project, according to the club, is aimed at developing the team, expanding fan and media engagement and targeting a return to Serie B. Speaking at his presentation, Ronaldo said he wanted to inspire his new teammates and enjoy a special season, adding that a decision on whether he will play on the pitch will be left to the coach and the club's management. His most prominent stated target for the move is to raise his professional career goal tally to 300 with Ravenna. The club said Ronaldo will not feature in the season opener against Reggiana, with the date of his first official match yet to be confirmed. Ronaldo's last professional appearance came in 2015 with Fluminense.