Cristiano Ronaldo buys 25% of UD Almeria, aiming to enhance club growth, branding, and international recognition

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal international and five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has acquired a 25% stake in UD Almeria, marking his first major investment in football club ownership.

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The Andalusian side currently sits third in Spain’s second division, just two points off the top, with 15 matches remaining in the campaign.

The deal, executed through Ronaldo’s CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 SA, was described by both parties as a “strategic investment” designed to drive long-term growth.

Ronaldo said the move reflects his ambition to contribute to football beyond the pitch, praising Almeria’s solid foundation and growth potential.

“For some time now I have had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the field,” Ronaldo said. “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.”

Ronaldo’s acquisition follows Almeria’s 2025 takeover by a Saudi investment group led by president Mohamed Al-Khereiji.

The partnership is expected to enhance the club’s operational efficiency, youth development, and international visibility.

Al-Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s entry, citing their long-standing professional relationship and the Portugal captain’s experience in top-tier European football as pivotal for Almeria’s progress.

The Portugal forward joins a growing trend of active players investing in football clubs, including Kylian Mbappe, who recently acquired a controlling stake in SM Caen.

Ronaldo’s involvement positions him to influence club strategy, commercial operations, and the sporting direction of UD Almeria, while increasing the team’s global profile.

The move marks a significant milestone in Ronaldo’s post-playing career, allowing him to shape a professional football club while leveraging his international reputation.

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For UD Almeria, the Portuguese star’s investment is expected to drive sponsorship opportunities and attract global attention to both on-field achievements and commercial potential.