Cristiano Ronaldo Buys Stake in Almeria, Eyes La Liga Return
Cristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% stake in Spanish second-tier side Almeria, eyes promotion to La Liga. Portuguese legend invests in Almeria, aims to boost club's fortunes in Segunda Division.
“UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential...”
Cristiano Ronaldo has become a part-owner of Spanish second-tier side Almeria, acquiring a 25% stake in the club through his company CR7 Sports Investments. This move marks Ronaldo's entry into football ownership, leveraging his experience and success in the sport.
Ronaldo, who spent nine successful years at Real Madrid and is the club's all-time top scorer, sees this investment as an opportunity to contribute to football beyond his playing career. Almeria, currently third in the Spanish second division, aims to secure promotion to La Liga under Ronaldo's involvement.
Almeria, who were relegated from LaLiga in 2023-24, was taken over by Saudi-based SMC Group in 2025. The financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed, but reports suggest the sale was around 100 million euros.
The takeover marks a new chapter for Almeria, with SMC Group planning to invest in the club and its academy. Mohamed Al-Khereiji, chairman of Saudi Media Company, will lead the board, while Mohamed El Assy remains as CEO.
“The agreement is part of the international expansion of the club driven by president Mohamed Al Kereiji through his business holding SMC Group,” Almeria said in a statement.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portuguese football legend, has been playing for Al Nassr, a top-flight club in Saudi Arabia, since 2023. He's currently leading the charge in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 21 league goals this season and helping Al Nassr top the table with 58 points from 23 matches.
Official statement:
— UD AlmerÃa (@UDAlmeria_Eng) February 26, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD AlmerÃa as part of the club ownership consortium led by SMC Group pic.twitter.com/0lk92FUjPH
“UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I wish to work with the team leading the club to support it in its new phase of growth,” Ronaldo said in a statement shared by Almeria.
Almeria, with one second-tier title to their name, are currently sitting pretty in third place in the Spanish second division table.
No comments:
Leave comment here