Ronaldinho plays first official match in 11 years: "If the President calls me, I'll be back"

Ronaldinho played the first half of Ravenna's 2-0 derby win over Forlì in his first official match after an 11-year break, and said he would play again if the club president calls him.

The 46-year-old Brazilian, who joined Italian Serie C side Ravenna in the summer, was named in the starting XI by head coach Andrea Mandorlini for Sunday's derby against Forlì at the Stadio Bruno Benelli.

Initially expected to play no more than half an hour, Ronaldinho stayed on for the entire first half and was replaced by Matteo Maggio at the interval. The Brazilian was involved in the move that led to Giulio Donati's opener in the 36th minute, and also caused danger with his deliveries from corners. Ravenna doubled their lead in the 58th minute through Simone Rabbi.

Ronaldinho, who played for Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan and scored 299 goals in his professional career, did not reach his 300th goal, but enjoyed playing his first official match since 2015.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia at half-time, Ronaldinho said: "It went by too fast, that has always been football for me".

The Brazilian added: "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".

Asked whether he would play for Ravenna again, he replied: "Is this my last one? 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".