MADRID, Spain (NPA) — Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has purchased a 25 percent ownership stake in Spanish second-division side UD Almería, marking a significant step into football investment as he nears the twilight of his playing career.
Ronaldo, captain of Portugal and currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, made the acquisition through his company, CR7 Sports Investments. The deal was announced Thursday morning.
“It has been a longtime ambition of mine to contribute to football beyond the pitch,” Ronaldo said in a statement. “UD Almería is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the club’s next phase of development.”
The 41-year-old forward, named a billionaire by Forbes last year, has long hinted at expanding his influence in football management and ownership. Analysts see the move as a prelude to his post-playing years, positioning him for a future role in shaping the sport off the field.
