Cristiano Ronaldo acquires stake in UD Almeria
Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a quarter stake in Spanish second-tier outfit UD Almeria, the club confirmed this morning, reports BritPanorama.
Financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed. This marks Ronaldo’s first involvement in Spanish football since leaving Real Madrid for Juventus in the summer of 2018, ending a nine-year tenure filled with victories at the Bernabéu.
Ronaldo, currently playing for Al-Nassr at the age of 41, is now both an active professional footballer and a club owner, adding a new dimension to his legacy. He expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “It has been a longtime ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch.” He noted that “UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth,” suggesting a collaborative future with the club’s leadership.
Club president Mohamed Al Khereiji welcomed the investment, remarking, “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in.” He highlighted Ronaldo’s extensive knowledge of Spanish football and acknowledged the potential of Almeria’s ongoing development.
Almeria currently ranks third in the Segunda División, just two points behind leaders Real Racing. The club, established in 1989, came under Saudi ownership last year through an investment group.
Ronaldo’s connection with Al Khereiji dates back to his move to Al-Nassr in 2022, facilitated by the president. Almeria’s first competitive match with their new co-owner is set for Friday evening against mid-table side Albacete. Additionally, Ronaldo’s recent comments at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards hinted at a future interest in a potential role at Manchester United, reflecting on the numerous challenges facing the club.
As football continues to intersect with business dynamics, Ronaldo’s dual role could provide intriguing insights into the future of club management and athlete influence. It’s a curious chapter that underscores how the field has evolved into a shared arena for players and ownership.
