Former Milan and Brazil goalkeeper Nelson Dida says Ronaldinho’s return to competitive football is a historic moment and believes the Brazilian remains a “showman” of the game.
Ronaldinho, 46, is in Ravenna’s starting XI for their Serie C local derby against Forli after agreeing a short-term contract with the club. It remains unclear how many matches he will play.
The former Barcelona and Milan forward has not appeared in a competitive fixture since September 2015, when he played for Fluminense. He formally announced his retirement in 2018, but a series of exhibition and charity matches helped persuade him to return.
Dida, who was Ronaldinho’s team-mate at both Milan and with Brazil, was at the Stadio Benelli to witness his comeback.
“It’s incredible, after not playing for 11 years, to see all these people flocking here,” Dida told Sky Sport Italia. “I am so happy to have this opportunity. It’s history, we are here witnessing history.”
The former goalkeeper said Ronaldinho deserved the occasion because of his character both on and off the pitch.
“It is unusual, and will be fantastic for him, because I would’ve loved to have an opportunity like this,” he added. “He has always been a great guy, on and off the field, so he deserves this.”
Dida also recalled the moments of skill that made Ronaldinho one of football’s most celebrated entertainers, including a goal he scored against him at San Siro.
“Ronaldinho was a showman, he did incredible things on the field, including a goal against me at San Siro,” said Dida. “He played with joy, and I still see that today, his passion for football. The years go by for everyone, sadly, but we can still see something today.”
The pair first knew each other as young players when Ronaldinho began his career at Gremio. Dida said the midfielder’s technical qualities were immediately clear.
“When he started at Gremio, we were young, but you could see his control of the ball, his improvisation, and I think all that stayed with him in every team he played,” he said.
“Things come easily to him that are impossible to the rest of us.”
Dida also remembered how Ronaldinho continued working on his technique after team training had ended.
“When training sessions finished, he’d always want to stay back and practice some free kicks with me.”
Football Italia is at the Stadio Benelli for the match between Ravenna and Forli, with live coverage of the build-up and game.
