Cristiano Ronaldo Commits to Al Nassr Through 2027, Ending Transfer Speculation

Cristiano Ronaldo has put an end to speculation about his future by signing a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr, the Saudi Arabian club announced Thursday. This deal ensures the football icon will remain with the team until 2027.

Cristiano Ronaldo pictured during a match for Portugal.

The 40-year-old global superstar affirmed his commitment in a video released by the club, declaring, "Al Nassr forever."

Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 triggered a wave of high-profile transfers, with numerous established players choosing to continue their careers in the Saudi Pro League.

Doubts about Ronaldo's future arose after he posted "This chapter is over" following Al Nassr's third-place finish in the Saudi Pro League, where they failed to secure any silverware.

A source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) told AFP that "Ronaldo's presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi league in the last two years and a half. He opens the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia."

The Saudi PIF oversees several Pro League clubs, including Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli.

The announcement of Ronaldo's contract extension follows Neymar's departure from Al Hilal in January. Neymar played only seven matches during his brief 18-month stint, earning a reported $104 million annually.

Despite leading the league in scoring with 25 goals, Ronaldo has yet to win any Saudi or continental titles with Al Nassr. The team was recently eliminated in the Asian Champions League semi-finals.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had previously hinted at the possibility of retiring with Al Nassr, a club favored by Saudi royals.

Saudi Arabia has dramatically reshaped its football landscape through substantial investments in European talent, starting with Ronaldo's transfer in late 2022. The nation is also set to host the 2034 World Cup.

Saudi football enthusiasts have enjoyed the opportunity to watch renowned players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, who collectively hold six Ballons d'Or, in regular league matches.

Some observers have noted similarities between the Saudi Pro League and the Chinese Super League, which previously attracted players with lucrative contracts before encountering financial challenges.

The Saudi Pro League's growth aligns with the country's broader ambitions to become a premier tourism and business destination as global oil demand declines.

Ronaldo initially joined Al Nassr two years ago in a deal reportedly valued at $250 million, marking a significant turning point in his career as he embraced Saudi Arabian football.