Cristiano Ronaldo's Strategic Move Towards Club Ownership
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered the realm of football club ownership, acquiring a 25 per cent stake in Spanish side Almeria. This significant development marks a pivotal step for the 41-year-old icon, whose illustrious playing career continues at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. However, this investment is widely viewed as the foundation for his post-retirement ambitions, with strong indications pointing towards a future financial interest in Manchester United.
Laying the Groundwork for a United Takeover
Over recent years, Ronaldo has consistently dropped hints about his desire to transition into club ownership once his playing days conclude. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has been particularly vocal about his aspirations, suggesting that his ultimate goal may involve a return to Old Trafford in a capacity beyond the pitch. His latest venture with Almeria serves as a practical entry point into ownership, potentially paving the way for more substantial investments.
Ronaldo's critical comments about Manchester United's management have further fueled speculation. During a 2022 interview with Piers Morgan, he did not hold back, stating, "The Glazers, they don’t care about the club. Manchester is a marketing club. They will get money from the marketing—the sport, they don’t really care, in my opinion." He also highlighted the club's failure to upgrade facilities since his first stint, noting that "nothing has changed" regarding gym, catering, and pool amenities.
Public Statements and Ownership Ambitions
At the 2024 Dubai Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo explicitly outlined his vision, asserting, "If I will be the owner of the club, I will make things clear and adjust things that are bad there." He has repeatedly dismissed the idea of becoming a manager, instead focusing on ownership. In 2023, he remarked, "I don't rule out becoming a club owner. It's something I thought about a few years back. I probably would like to own a [football] club."
His financial capability supports these ambitions, with Bloomberg reporting in 2025 that Ronaldo had become football's first legitimate billionaire. This economic power positions him as a formidable potential investor, capable of making significant moves in the football world.
The Almeria Investment as a Stepping Stone
Ronaldo's acquisition in Almeria is not merely a personal milestone but a strategic move within a broader trend of athletes investing in football clubs. He joins other notable figures like Ronaldo Nazario, who owns Real Valladolid, and ex-NBA stars Steve Nash and Steve Kerr, who are shareholders in Mallorca. In a press release via CR7 Sports Investments, Ronaldo stated, "It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football beyond the pitch...I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the club’s next phase of growth."
This investment is seen as a "toe-dip" moment, with expectations that his portfolio could expand rapidly. Success with Almeria may bolster his confidence and resources, making a future stake in Manchester United more feasible. While immediate ownership of United might not be realistic due to the club's current structure under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's minority stake, it remains a tantalising prospect for fans and analysts alike.
Fan Sentiment and Future Prospects
Many Manchester United supporters might welcome the idea of Ronaldo influencing decisions at Old Trafford, given his deep connection to the club and his outspoken criticism of past management. His comments about "fixing" United resonate with a fanbase eager for a return to the glory days under Sir Alex Ferguson. Although Ratcliffe's tenure shows promising signs with Michael Carrick at the helm, Ronaldo's potential involvement could represent a dramatic shift in the club's trajectory.
As Ronaldo continues to build his ownership credentials, the football world watches closely. His journey from player to investor underscores a growing trend of athletes leveraging their fame and wealth to shape the sport's future. With his eyes set on Manchester United, this story is far from over, promising further developments as his career evolves and opportunities arise.
