Ronaldo returns to Spanish football! Buys minority stake in UD Almería

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially returned to Spanish football. Not as a player, but as a minority owner of UD Almería. The former Real Madrid star, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, will join the club’s ownership alongside current president Mohamed Al-Khereji, a member of the Saudi royal family.

 

Al-Khereji became the majority owner of Almería last year, taking over from Turki Al-Sheikh, and has expressed a strong ambition to guide the Andalusian club back to La Liga as quickly as possible. He also owns a club in the Saudi Pro League, where Ronaldo recently scored a penalty in a 5-0 victory against Al-Najma.

 

???? Cristiano Ronaldo on buying 25% of UD Almeria: “It has been a longtime ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch”.  “UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team… pic.twitter.com/8IXNiqgawZ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 26, 2026

Ronaldo’s Investment and Statement

 

Ronaldo’s involvement is through his company, CR7 Sports Investments, which manages much of his business portfolio. While the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, Al-Khereji acquired the club for €100 million to secure majority ownership.

 

Ronaldo released a statement through CR7 Sports Investments:

 

“I have always wanted to contribute to football beyond my playing career. UD Almería is a club with strong foundations and significant growth potential. I am excited to work with the management team and support the next stage of the club’s development.” 

 

Al-Khereji Welcomes Ronaldo

 

Al-Khereji praised Ronaldo’s experience in Spanish football:

 

“We are thrilled that Cristiano chose our club to invest in. He is regarded as one of the greatest players ever, knows the Spanish leagues inside out, and understands the potential of our project, both on the pitch and in the academy.”

 

Playing Career Rumours and Almería’s Current Form

 

Recent rumors suggested Almería might sign Ronaldo as a player, but these reports were linked to his investment, not a transfer. However, sources indicate Ronaldo is interested in a European return at the top level, after leaving Manchester United, though no suitable offers materialized.

 

Almería are currently third in Segunda División, just one point shy of automatic promotion spots, and are competing in the play-offs with 15 games remaining. The club last featured in La Liga in 2024 but fell short of promotion last season after losing in the play-offs.