Cristiano Ronaldo’s signing with the Saudi Arabian team Al Nassr is a massive deal for soccer in the Middle East. It set the stage for the Portuguese superstar to become the icon of Saudi Arabia’s World Cup campaign.
After Ronaldo reached an agreement with Al Nassr until June 2025, the club celebrated the news by posting a photo of him wearing the team’s shirt online and calling it “history in the making.” Musalli Al Muammar thinks this agreement will push his team, the league, the country, and the girls and boys of today and tomorrow to be the best they can be.
Ronaldo Feels Now is the Moment to Share Experience with Asian Fans
The big cheque for Ronaldo, at 37, in what may be his last contract, is another benefit. According to speculations, the agreement might be worth as much as US$200 million per year to the Portugal star, making him the most paid player in history.
In an announcement, Ronaldo talked about how excited he was to play football in leagues from different countries. Fortunate enough to have accomplished what he set out to do in European football, he thinks now is the time to share his experiences and wisdom with fans in Asia.
With Ronaldo on their side, Al Nassr, seeking an 18th local title, is looking to win the AFC Asian Champions League for the first time. He believes that Cristiano is joining a team with huge goals. This professional club ranks among the most elite in Asia. He will be welcomed by a country growing on and off the field, giving everyone a chance.
Saudi Kingdom Hopes to Host the 2030 World Cup
This is excellent news for football in the Middle East. Still, it will also raise the question of whether or not Saudi Arabia is using “sportswashing” to improve its reputation worldwide. The Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund sponsors Premier League club Newcastle, and Saudi Arabia is considering a proposal to host the 2030 World Cup.
Ronaldo’s contract with Manchester United was cancelled after he gave an angry interview in which he criticized manager Erik ten Hag and the club’s owners for always putting him on the bench and even suspending him for a short time.
Editorial credit: Cosmin Iftode / Shutterstock.com