Cristiano Ronaldo, the iconic Portuguese forward, is poised to sign a new contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, which will further cement his status as the highest-paid footballer in the world. As of January 14, 2025, reports indicate that Ronaldo has accepted a lucrative offer from Al Nassr that will extend his stay until at least June 2026, allowing him to continue his career in the Saudi Pro League at the age of 39.
Background: Ronaldo’s Move to Al Nassr
Ronaldo’s journey to Al Nassr began after a tumultuous second stint at Manchester United, which ended in late 2022. Following a controversial interview that criticized the club and its management, Ronaldo departed Old Trafford and signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Al Nassr in January 2023. This move marked a significant shift in his career, taking him to a league that was gaining international attention for its investments in football and high-profile player acquisitions.
Upon joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo’s contract was reported to be worth around €200 million per year, making him not only the highest-paid player in Saudi Arabia but also in the global football landscape. His initial contract included substantial earnings from both on-field contributions and off-field endorsements, which have continued to grow as he remains a significant draw for sponsors and fans alike.
Details of the New Contract
The new contract Ronaldo is set to sign is reportedly worth approximately €200 million annually, equivalent to around €3.8 million per week. This staggering salary includes both his playing wages and additional income from image rights and sponsorship deals. According to various sources, this renewal will ensure that Ronaldo continues to earn more than half a million euros per day, reinforcing his financial dominance in the sport.
Ronaldo’s performance on the pitch has been nothing short of remarkable since his arrival at Al Nassr. He has scored 75 goals in just 84 appearances, showcasing his enduring talent and goal-scoring prowess even as he approaches his 40th birthday. This impressive tally places him on track to potentially reach the milestone of 1,000 career goals, a feat that would further solidify his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
The Impact of Ronaldo on Al Nassr and Saudi Football
Ronaldo’s presence at Al Nassr has had profound implications for both the club and Saudi Arabian football as a whole. His signing was part of a broader strategy by Saudi Arabia to elevate its football league’s profile on the international stage. By attracting superstars like Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League aims to enhance its competitiveness and appeal, drawing attention from fans and investors worldwide.
The financial investment in players like Ronaldo reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambition to transform its sports sector as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. This plan seeks to diversify the economy beyond oil dependency by promoting tourism and entertainment, with sports playing a crucial role in this transformation. Ronaldo’s involvement has not only elevated Al Nassr’s status but has also inspired other clubs within the league to pursue high-profile signings.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Ronaldo has expressed ambitions beyond individual accolades. He aims to lead Al Nassr to domestic titles and compete effectively in continental competitions such as the AFC Champions League. His competitive spirit remains undiminished; he has stated his desire to win championships wherever he plays, reflecting his history of success across various leagues throughout his career.
As he prepares for the next phase of his career with Al Nassr, there are discussions about how long he will continue playing professionally. While some speculate about retirement or potential moves to other leagues or clubs after this contract ends, Ronaldo himself has maintained an open stance regarding his future. He acknowledges that while age may be a factor, his passion for football drives him to continue competing at high levels.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s expected signing of a new contract with Al Nassr marks another chapter in an illustrious career filled with records and achievements. As he approaches 40 years old, his ability to command such a lucrative deal underscore not only his talent but also his enduring appeal as one of football’s most recognizable figures.
With this new agreement extending until June 2026, fans can anticipate watching Ronaldo continue to make history on the pitch while contributing significantly to the growth of football in Saudi Arabia. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide, demonstrating that dedication and skill can transcend age barriers in professional sports.
As Ronaldo continues to chase personal milestones while striving for team success with Al Nassr, he remains a central figure not just in Saudi Arabian football but also on the global stage an icon whose influence extends far beyond the confines of any single league or country.