Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in Spanish second-division club UD Almería, according to his representatives. The investment was made through his company, CR7 Sports Investments, and confirmed by Brunswick Group. The club has been under Saudi ownership since 2025.
Ronaldo, 41, currently plays in Saudi Arabia for Al-Nassr. In a statement, he described the move as part of his ambition to contribute to football “beyond the pitch,” highlighting Almería’s “strong foundations and clear potential for growth.”
The announcement sparked mixed reactions. Supporters welcomed the investment, noting Ronaldo’s global profile could boost Almería’s visibility and attract sponsorships. “This is a huge opportunity for the club to grow internationally,” one fan commented online. Others praised Ronaldo for preparing for life after his playing career by moving into football ownership.
Critics, however, questioned the timing and motives behind the deal. Some argued that investing in a Saudi-owned club could raise concerns about political and financial influence in European football. “It feels more like a business arrangement than a passion for the sport,” one observer remarked. Others expressed skepticism about whether Ronaldo’s involvement would translate into meaningful improvements for the team, which is still fighting for promotion back to La Liga.
The investment underscores a broader trend of high-profile players moving into club ownership, reflecting both the globalization of football and the increasing role of Middle Eastern investors in European leagues.
