Cristiano Ronaldo Ventures into Club Ownership with Stake in Spanish Team
In a significant move off the pitch, football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered the realm of club ownership by acquiring a 25% stake in UD Almeria, a club currently competing in Spain's second division. This strategic investment marks Ronaldo's first major foray into owning a football team, signaling his commitment to extending his influence in the sport beyond his illustrious playing career.
Details of the Acquisition and Strategic Vision
The deal was announced through Ronaldo's CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of his company CR7 SA, as reported by MARCA. While financial specifics remain undisclosed, both parties have described it as a strategic investment focused on long-term growth. Ronaldo, who recently turned 41, expressed his ambition to contribute to football beyond the field, stating, "UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I look forward to working with the team that leads it to support the club in its new phase of growth."
This acquisition confirms earlier reports from May 16, 2025, which hinted at Ronaldo joining Almeria's ownership group following a Saudi investment takeover led by Mohamed Al-Khereiji. The club, based in Andalusia, is currently third in the league table, just two points off the top with 15 rounds remaining, positioning it well for potential promotion.
Ronaldo's Return to Spanish Football and Club Impact
Ronaldo's investment represents a return to Spanish football, albeit in a non-playing capacity, after his recent fallout with the Saudi investment group. As a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, his involvement is expected to influence club operations and development, leveraging his extensive experience from top-tier European football. Almeria's president, Mohamed Al-Khereiji, welcomed Ronaldo's entry into the shareholding, noting their long-standing professional relationship, which previously played a key role in Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr after his controversial exit from Manchester United.
The partnership is anticipated to propel Almeria into a new phase of growth, both on and off the field. By leveraging Ronaldo's global profile and international reputation, the club aims to attract sponsorships and enhance its branding, potentially boosting its operations and recognition worldwide. This move aligns with Ronaldo's broader business vision, as he had previously indicated a desire to own a football club and address structural issues in European football, a mission he highlighted at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards in December 2024.
Trend of Active Footballers Investing in Clubs
Ronaldo joins a growing trend of active footballers venturing into club ownership. In a related development, Kylian Mbappe, at just 25 years old, has become the majority owner of SM Caen, a professional French club, investing nearly €20 million to secure a controlling stake. This pattern underscores a shift where players are increasingly taking on roles as investors and stakeholders in the football industry, shaping the future of clubs beyond their playing days.
Overall, Ronaldo's acquisition of a stake in UD Almeria not only marks a personal milestone in his post-playing career but also highlights the evolving landscape of football ownership, where legends like him are actively contributing to the sport's growth and sustainability.
