Cristiano Ronaldo Acquires Stake in Spanish Club UD Almería
In a significant move that blends football legacy with business acumen, global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has purchased a minority stake in Spanish second-division club UD Almería. The investment was officially announced on Thursday by Brunswick Group, the consulting firm representing the Portuguese forward.
Details of the Investment Deal
According to the statement, Ronaldo has acquired a 25 per cent share in the club, which is currently owned by Saudi Arabian investors. The 41-year-old athlete, who has been based in Saudi Arabia since late 2022 after joining Al-Nassr, completed this investment through his subsidiary, CR7 Sports Investments. This strategic move signals his ambition to deepen his involvement in football beyond his illustrious playing career.
Ronaldo expressed his enthusiasm in the announcement, stating, "It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch. UD Almería is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth."
Background on UD Almería and Saudi Ownership
UD Almería has been under Saudi ownership for more than six years. In the summer of 2025, Mohamed Al-Khereiji took over as owner and president after purchasing the club from Turki Al Alsheikh. Al-Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo's investment, saying, "We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in. 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."
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed publicly. Almería did not immediately respond to an email from the Associated Press seeking further clarification on the transaction.
Current Status and Future Prospects
Currently, UD Almería sits third in Spain's second division, positioning them well for a potential promotion push. The club last competed in La Liga, Spain's top flight, during the 2023–24 season. Ronaldo's investment is expected to bolster the club's resources and visibility, potentially accelerating their growth trajectory.
This development highlights the increasing intersection of football, business, and international investment, particularly with Saudi Arabian interests playing a prominent role. Ronaldo's move aligns with a broader trend of athletes transitioning into ownership roles post-retirement, leveraging their expertise and networks to shape the future of the sport.
