Ronaldinho’s club begin £873k stadium project after Brazil legend’s signing

Brazil icon Ronaldinho has completed a surprise move to Italian third-tier side Ravenna, more than a decade after his last competitive appearance.

Although it was initially suggested his role would be limited marketing activities, they have since refused to role out the possibility of the 46-year-old taking to the pitch in the near future.

With excitement around the club continuing to grow following Ronaldinho's arrival, Ravenna have now begun a major redevelopment of Stadio Bruno Benelli as part of a €1.025 million (£873,000) project.

The first phase of the works is already underway, with the stadium set to become larger, safer and more modern ahead of the new season.

Demolition work begins as Ravenna upgrade Stadio Bruno Benelli

The first visible stage of the redevelopment has now started, with the club dismantling the ageing steel stands at Stadio Bruno Benelli.

The work is expected to take around a month and forms part of a wider £873,000 (€1.025 million) investment funded by the Municipality of Ravenna.

Rather than replacing the steel structures like-for-like, the project will see sections of the stadium completely redeveloped, while the existing reinforced concrete stands will also undergo seismic strengthening before being fitted with new seating.

The redevelopment will also improve accessibility, with dedicated spaces being created for disabled supporters, while upgraded electrical and fire safety systems will be installed throughout the renovated section.

Once the current phase of work is complete, the stadium's capacity will increase from 4,995 to 6,345, although only half of the planned new stand will initially be completed.

Plans are also in place to renovate the playing surface, although that work has been pushed back until next year.

FGG says: Ronaldinho's arrival is already making an impact

Whether directly linked or not, there is no doubt Ronaldinho's arrival has shone a brighter spotlight on Ravenna.

A larger, safer and more modern Stadio Bruno Benelli is exactly the type of investment supporters will hope accompanies the club's growing ambition and can be a great thing for smaller sides like Ravenna.