Cristiano Ronaldo has become a co-owner of Spanish second division club Almeria by acquiring a 25% stake in the club. The 41-year-old forward, currently playing for Al-Nassr, made the investment through his newly formed company, CR7 Sports Investments.
While the exact financial details of the transaction were not disclosed, Ronaldo expressed excitement about contributing to Almeria’s development beyond his playing career. He stated, “It has been a long-held ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch.”
Ronaldo’s Ambition and Club’s Potential
Ronaldo added, “UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.” His involvement aligns with his broader vision of shaping the future of football, using his experience and influence to support clubs in their next stages of development.
Al-Khereiji’s Vision for Almeria
Almeria’s president, Mohammed Al-Khereiji, who leads a Saudi Arabian investment consortium, praised Ronaldo’s role in the club. He said, “Ronaldo is regarded as the greatest to ever play the game, he knows the Spanish leagues very well, and he understands the potential of what we are building here both in terms of the team and the academy.”
Background of Almeria’s Ownership
Last year, Al-Khereiji’s SMC Group acquired Almeria from Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA). This marks the latest development in the club’s ambitious efforts to reach new heights.
Ronaldo’s connection to Spain is well-known, as he spent nine successful years with Real Madrid. During that time, he won two La Liga titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League four times. After joining Juventus in 2018, Ronaldo moved to Saudi Arabia in 2022 to play for Al-Nassr, where he became the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m.
Almeria’s Current Standing
Almeria, founded in 1989, currently sits third in Spain’s second division (Segunda), two points behind leaders Real Racing, with 15 games remaining in the season. Ronaldo’s investment in the club comes at an exciting time as they continue to push for promotion to La Liga.
With his backing, the club is poised for a new chapter of growth both on and off the field.
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