Cristiano Ronaldo Signs Record-Breaking £500 Million Deal with Al Nassr
A new era begins for Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, as the football icon has agreed to a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr, reportedly worth a staggering £500 million – a figure understood to be the richest in sporting history. The deal secures Ronaldo’s future with the club until 2027, silencing speculation of a potential move following a cryptic social media post that fueled transfer rumors.
A Historic Contract for a Football Legend
The agreement extends Ronaldo’s stay in the Saudi Pro League, where he has already made a significant impact since joining Al Nassr in December 2022. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will earn an annual salary of £178 million, translating to approximately £487,671 per day. Beyond the base salary, the contract includes a substantial £24.5 million signing bonus, increasing to £38 million in the second year, and a significant ownership stake in the club.
Ownership and Performance-Based Incentives
Ronaldo will receive a 15% ownership stake in Al Nassr, valued at around £33 million. The financial package is further bolstered by performance-based bonuses, including £8 million for winning the Saudi Pro League and £6.5 million for claiming the Asian Champions League title. He also stands to earn £4 million for winning the Golden Boot award. Additionally, Ronaldo will receive £80,000 per goal and £40,000 per assist, with both figures increasing by 20% in the second year of the contract. Al-Nassr will also cover £4 million in private jet expenses. The total package could exceed £492 million over the two years, depending on team and individual success.
Social Media Confirmation and Club Announcement
Ronaldo confirmed the deal on social media, stating, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.” Al Nassr officially announced the contract extension, confirming that the captain’s contract is valid until 2027.
From Manchester United to Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr followed a controversial departure from Manchester United in 2022, triggered by a critical interview with Piers Morgan. Since joining the Saudi club, he has demonstrated his continued goal-scoring prowess, netting 99 goals in 111 appearances and winning the Saudi Pro League’s Golden Boot last season with 35 goals.
A Change in Management at Al Nassr
The news of Ronaldo’s contract extension came just one day after Al Nassr parted ways with manager Stefano Pioli, marking the fourth managerial change during Ronaldo’s tenure with the club. Pioli, appointed in September, led Al Nassr to a third-place finish in the Saudi Pro League last season, trailing champions Al Ittihad by 13 points. Ronaldo acknowledged the departure on social media, posting, “Thanks for everything.”
The Pursuit of 1000 Career Goals
Despite previous speculation linking him to clubs like Inter Miami – potentially uniting him with Lionel Messi – and offers from Brazilian side Fluminense, Ronaldo has committed to Al Nassr as he aims to surpass 1000 career goals. He currently boasts 938 goals for club and country, requiring 62 more to reach the milestone.
Deal Breakdown in Numbers
Here’s a detailed look at Ronaldo’s new deal:
- £178M per year
- £24.5M signing bonus (increases to £38M in second year)
- £8M bonus if Al Nassr win the Saudi Pro League
- £6.5M bonus if Al Nassr win the Asian Champions League
- £4M bonus for winning the golden boot
- 15% ownership of Al Nassr (estimated at £33m)
- £80K bonus per goal (increases by 20% in second year)
- £40K bonus per assist (increases by 20% in second year)
- £60M worth of sponsorship deals promised
- £4M worth of private jet expenses, covered by Al-Nassr
Ronaldo’s decision underscores his commitment to the Saudi Pro League and his ambition to continue competing at the highest level, while simultaneously building a legacy that extends beyond the pitch.
