Cristiano Ronaldo has made his initial foray into the sphere of club proprietorship, acquiring a 25% interest in the Spanish team, Almeria.
The 41-year-old athlete continues to perform robustly on the field – demonstrated by his goal last night during Al-Nassr’s dominant 5-0 victory over Al-Najmah – but he has begun formulating strategies for his post-retirement existence.
His recently established entity, CR7 Sports Investments company, has secured a quarter ownership of Almeria, currently positioned third in the Segunda Division and trailing the top spot by merely two points.
An ascent to promotion would position them against Ronaldo’s former squad, Real Madrid, in the subsequent season.
“It has long been my aspiration to contribute to the sport of football, extending beyond my role on the pitch,” Ronaldo stated.
“UD Almeria represents a Spanish club possessing robust foundations and distinct potential for expansion. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the leadership cohort to bolster the club’s subsequent developmental phase.”
Ronaldo to Partner with Saudi Syndicate
Ronaldo’s choice to opt for Almeria was influenced by the club’s acquisition last year by an assembly of Saudi financiers, spearheaded by Mohamed Al Khereiji, who is reportedly a close confidant of the player.
Al Khereiji, who serves as Almeria’s president, expresses great satisfaction in having Ronaldo onboard.
He articulated: “We are exceedingly pleased that Cristiano has opted for our club as an investment vehicle.
“He is revered as the finest ever to grace the game, possesses profound familiarity with the Spanish leagues, and comprehends the inherent promise in what we are cultivating here, both regarding the main squad and the youth academy.”
Ronaldo Content at Al-Nassr Following Disagreement
Reports in the Spanish press have also indicated that Ronaldo intends to conclude his professional career with Almeria once his existing Al-Nassr agreement concludes in June 2027.
This year, the former Manchester United and Juventus forward experienced a widely publicized disagreement with Al-Nassr and co-owners the Public Investment Fund, even initiating a strike to convey his displeasure regarding a dearth of January investment.
Nevertheless, in a recent dialogue, he signaled that the matter has now been resolved.
“I am quite content,” he conveyed to the Saudi broadcaster Thmanyah. “As I frequently reiterate, my allegiance is to Saudi Arabia.
“It is a nation that has extended a warm welcome to me, my relatives, and my companions. I am pleased here; I wish to remain.
“The paramount objective is to persist in our pursuit [for the league championship]; we hold a leading position. We execute our duties, secure victories, exert pressure, and await the outcome at season’s conclusion.”
Last night’s triumph against Al-Najmah propelled Jorge Jesus’ squad two points ahead at the summit of the standings, with eleven fixtures remaining.