Marketing stunt or ‘extraordinary’ transfer? Ravenna fans ride wave of the Ronaldinho Effect

On a scorching summer afternoon in Ravenna, the historic centre is buzzing with an unusual expectation. As The Guardian reports, eyes are peeled for one of world football’s most recognisable figures: Ronaldinho, the 2002 World Cup winner and 2005 Ballon d’Or holder, who is reportedly close to signing for the Serie C club at the age of 46.

The response from locals is mixed. Four supporters sitting at a cafe told the paper, with dry irony, that they had not seen him yet, while flipping through La Gazzetta dello Sport. They admit the move looks like a purely commercial operation, but deep down they still dream of seeing the Brazilian wear their yellow and red shirt.

The man who arranged the deal is said to have high hopes, calling it an ‘extraordinary’ transfer. Yet the scepticism in Ravenna reflects a broader divide between those who see a marketing stunt and those who hope for one last flash of magic in a city better known for Byzantine mosaics and Dante’s tomb than for footballing glory.

Whether Ronaldinho actually arrives remains to be seen, but the ‘Ronaldinho Effect’ has already given Ravenna a moment in the spotlight. Readers can find related match highlights on this site.