Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal international, has agreed a huge new contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, keeping him in Riyadh until 2027. The deal is worth an estimated £492 million over two years and includes a significant ownership stake in the club. This commitment puts an end to weeks of talk about his future.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who turned 40 earlier this year, will earn a basic salary of around £488,000 per day. This works out to £178 million each year. He also got a £24.5 million signing bonus, which could rise to £38 million if he stays for the second year of the deal.
Perhaps most striking, Ronaldo now holds a 15 per cent ownership stake in Al-Nassr, valued at about £33 million. This makes him not just a player but also a part-owner, blurring the lines between athlete and executive. Ronaldo has spoken before about his wish to own football clubs after he stops playing.
The new contract also comes with many other benefits. Al-Nassr will pay for 16 full-time staff for Ronaldo, including drivers, housekeepers, chefs, gardeners, and security, costing £1.4 million. He also gets to use a private jet, worth £4 million each year. On top of this, there is the chance of sponsorship deals from Saudi companies, which could reach £60 million.
Bonuses are also available if Ronaldo achieves certain goals. He could get £4 million for winning the Golden Boot and £8 million if Al-Nassr win the league title.
Ronaldo shared his excitement on social media, writing: "A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let's make history together." The club also announced the extension, stating his contract is valid until 2027.
David De Gea, the former Manchester United goalkeeper, joked about the deal, saying Ronaldo was "playing for free" given the huge sums involved. Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United. Since then, he has scored 99 goals in 111 games for the club, including 35 last season to win the Saudi Pro League's Golden Boot award.
Despite his goal-scoring success, Al-Nassr have not won a major trophy since he joined, finishing third in the league last season. Ronaldo had hinted at leaving the club earlier, posting "This chapter is over" after their trophy-less campaign. However, his new deal shows his deep commitment to the club and Saudi football. His presence has greatly increased the profile of the Saudi Pro League, drawing other big names to the country.
This agreement keeps Ronaldo playing past his 42nd birthday. He aims to win silverware with Al-Nassr and help further raise the standing of Saudi football globally.
