Cristiano Ronaldo Extends Al Nassr Stay Until 2027: A Game-Changer for Saudi Football
By AFP & Reuters
June 26, 2025
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — In a landmark move that underscores Saudi Arabia’s rising status in the world of sports, Al Nassr FC announced that Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract extension, committing himself to the club until 2027. At that point, Ronaldo will be 42 years old — an age when most professional footballers have long retired from competitive play.
The announcement was made in a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027”. The post quickly went viral across the globe, reaffirming the football icon’s deepening ties with the Saudi Pro League (SPL).
A New Chapter for the Legendary Star
Ronaldo, who arrived in Saudi Arabia in late 2022 after an abrupt exit from Manchester United, has proven himself as a powerhouse for Al Nassr. In 105 appearances for the club across all competitions, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has amassed an astonishing 93 goals. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains one of the SPL’s biggest draws and its top-scorer for the 2024–25 season, netting 25 goals.
“Ronaldo’s presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi League in the last two and a half years,” a source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) stated in May. “He opened the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia.”
With this new contract, Ronaldo aims to solidify his legacy in the Middle East while also nurturing the league that has reshaped itself into an attractive destination for international talent.
The Announcement and Its Impact
The Al Nassr social media campaign preceding the official announcement captured the emotion of the moment. In a short teaser clip, a smiling Ronaldo can be seen strolling along a picturesque Saudi Arabian beach, saying simply, “Al Nassr forever”. The video sparked speculation online, setting the stage for the formal statement from the club just minutes later.
With this extension, Al Nassr confirmed that their biggest star will remain central to their ambitions for at least two more seasons. The move signals stability for the club and a strong statement about the long-term vision of the SPL.
Ronaldo’s Journey to Al Nassr
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United. The move marked the beginning of an era where Saudi Arabia positioned itself as an emerging powerhouse in global football. At the time, the deal was estimated to be worth approximately $250 million, making it one of the most lucrative in sports history.
Since then, the Saudi Pro League has evolved rapidly, attracting other global icons such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Roberto Firmino. The influx of talent has reshaped the competitive balance within the league and brought unprecedented attention from international media and football fans.
The Role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been pivotal in this evolution. As one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, the PIF has invested billions across sports, entertainment, and infrastructure projects. In football, it controls four of the top clubs in the SPL — Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad — making the league one of the best-funded in the world.
“Ronaldo is a pivotal figure for the future of Saudi football,” said a source from the PIF. “He brings visibility, experience, and credibility that have accelerated the league’s rise.”
With the 2034 FIFA World Cup confirmed to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, the kingdom aims to use its investment in sports to reshape its global image and diversify its economy, making football central to its ambitions.
Ronaldo’s Impact in Numbers
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has accumulated:
-
93 Goals in 105 Matches
-
25 Goals in the 2024–25 SPL season (Top Scorer)
Ronaldo’s stats highlight not only his individual brilliance but also his role as a motivator and mentor for teammates and younger talent. The “Ronaldo Effect” has inspired higher attendances across SPL matches and strengthened the league’s brand globally.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Ronaldo’s move has boosted the SPL, it has also been met with skepticism and comparisons to the now-defunct Chinese Super League. The Chinese league, too, attracted top talents with huge salaries until the economic bubble burst, leaving several clubs insolvent.
Saudi authorities, however, have learned from those lessons. They have combined hefty investments in sports with long-term economic planning, making sure that clubs have institutional support and financial stability beyond short-term gains. The PIF’s role as the custodian of the biggest clubs is one example of this strategy.
Ronaldo and Al Nassr’s Trophy Quest
Although Ronaldo has been prolific individually, team accolades have been harder to secure. Al Nassr finished the 2023–24 SPL season in third place, falling short of both domestic and continental glory. The club was eliminated from the Asian Champions League in the semi-finals, highlighting the challenges that remain.
“Winning titles with Al Nassr is my priority now,” said Ronaldo in a recent press conference. “I came to Saudi Arabia to make a difference — and I will continue to give my best every match until the end of my career.”
With the new contract in place, Al Nassr aims to build a team around Ronaldo that can dominate both domestically and in Asia.
The Bigger Picture: Saudi Arabia’s Football Ambition
Saudi Arabia’s investments in football are part of its Vision 2030 initiative — a blueprint for economic diversification and global engagement. The kingdom aims to evolve from an oil-reliant state into a global business and tourism destination. Sports have become an integral piece of that puzzle.
The successful bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup confirms the kingdom’s long-term commitment. By bringing elite talents like Ronaldo to the SPL, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a premier destination for football and sports in general.
The Ronaldo Effect: Culture and Society
Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia has had a profound impact beyond football. It has:
-
Created new role models for young Saudi athletes Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Inspired a growing youth interest in sports and fitness Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Attracted international media attention and boosted tourism Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Accelerated infrastructural investments, including stadium upgrades Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Ronaldo is more than a footballer for us — he is an ambassador for change,” said a senior official from the Saudi General Entertainment Authority. “Through sports, we are reshaping perceptions and fostering connections across borders.”
The Competition: Al Nassr vs Al Hilal vs Al Ahli
While Al Nassr has Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League boasts other global stars across rival teams. Al Hilal’s signing of Neymar Jr. (although hampered by injuries) and Al Ahli’s acquisition of Roberto Firmino have created a highly competitive environment within the SPL Cristiano Ronaldo.
Each match is now a global spectacle, drawing millions of viewers from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The league has evolved into a compelling mix of elite veteran talent and promising young players, making every matchday an event Cristiano Ronaldo.
Will Ronaldo Retire in Saudi Arabia?
While nothing is certain, the recent contract extension suggests that Ronaldo may end his career in Saudi Arabia. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has openly stated in interviews that he feels a strong sense of belonging in the kingdom.
“Saudi Arabia has been very welcoming to me and my family,” said Ronaldo. “I am proud to be a part of this project that goes beyond football. We are making history together Cristiano Ronaldo.
With an extension until 2027 and the 2034 World Cup firmly in sight, Ronaldo is poised to remain a central figure in the kingdom’s sports and entertainment renaissance Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Legacy: What Will This Mean for the Game?
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr will be remembered as a pivotal moment in football history. At a time when veteran stars typically chose less competitive leagues for a final payday, Ronaldo’s move signaled the beginning of a bold new chapter for the global game Cristiano Ronaldo.
For Saudi Arabia, it is an assertion of its growing role as a powerhouse in sports. The kingdom aims to host international tournaments, attract global talent, and become a center of excellence in football. The presence of a player like Ronaldo serves as the foundation upon which these aspirations can be built Cristiano Ronaldo.
Operation Yalghar: CTD nabs RAW-linked terrorists planning to target mosque, railway station congerous 7
Read This artical
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
With Ronaldo signed until 2027, Al Nassr and the Saudi Pro League are poised for an exciting era. Fans can expect more thrilling matches, iconic moments, and milestones that will further solidify the league’s place on the global sports map.
As Ronaldo himself said, “This chapter is over” when referring to his European journey. But in Saudi Arabia, a new chapter has only just begun — one that will define the future of football in the Middle East and beyond Cristiano Ronaldo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why did Ronaldo extend his contract with Al Nassr until 2027?
Ronaldo chose to stay with Al Nassr due to the club’s ambitious project, its role in the growing Saudi Pro League, and its long-term vision aligning with his personal and professional aspirations.
Q2. How many goals has Ronaldo scored for Al Nassr?
As of June 2025, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances across all competitions for Al Nassr.
Q3. Will Ronaldo retire in Saudi Arabia?
While not confirmed, the extension until 2027 suggests that Ronaldo may consider ending his playing career in the kingdom.
Q4. What is the significance of Ronaldo’s stay for Saudi Arabian football?
Ronaldo’s presence has boosted the global profile of the SPL, attracted other star talents, inspired younger generations, and contributed to making Saudi Arabia a future hub for sports and entertainment.
Q5. Will Al Nassr win a major trophy with Ronaldo?
Although Al Nassr has yet to win a league or continental title with Ronaldo, the club aims to build a competitive squad around him to achieve this goal in the coming seasons Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo Extends Al Nassr Stay Until 2027: A Game-Changer for Saudi Football
By AFP & Reuters
June 26, 2025
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — In a landmark move that underscores Saudi Arabia’s rising status in the world of sports, Al Nassr FC announced that Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract extension, committing himself to the club until 2027. At that point, Ronaldo will be 42 years old — an age when most professional footballers have long retired from competitive play.
The announcement was made in a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027”. The post quickly went viral across the globe, reaffirming the football icon’s deepening ties with the Saudi Pro League (SPL) Cristiano Ronaldo.
A New Chapter for the Legendary Star
Ronaldo, who arrived in Saudi Arabia in late 2022 after an abrupt exit from Manchester United, has proven himself as a powerhouse for Al Nassr. In 105 appearances for the club across all competitions, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has amassed an astonishing 93 goals. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains one of the SPL’s biggest draws and its top-scorer for the 2024–25 season, netting 25 goals Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Ronaldo’s presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi League in the last two and a half years,” a source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) stated in May. “He opened the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia.”
With this new contract, Ronaldo aims to solidify his legacy in the Middle East while also nurturing the league that has reshaped itself into an attractive destination for international talent Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Announcement and Its Impact
The Al Nassr social media campaign preceding the official announcement captured the emotion of the moment. In a short teaser clip, a smiling Ronaldo can be seen strolling along a picturesque Saudi Arabian beach, saying simply, “Al Nassr forever”. The video sparked speculation online, setting the stage for the formal statement from the club just minutes later.
With this extension, Al Nassr confirmed that their biggest star will remain central to their ambitions for at least two more seasons. The move signals stability for the club and a strong statement about the long-term vision of the SPL Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s Journey to Al Nassr
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United. The move marked the beginning of an era where Saudi Arabia positioned itself as an emerging powerhouse in global football. At the time, the deal was estimated to be worth approximately $250 million, making it one of the most lucrative in sports history.
Since then, the Saudi Pro League has evolved rapidly, attracting other global icons such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Roberto Firmino. The influx of talent has reshaped the competitive balance within the league and brought unprecedented attention from international media and football fans Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF)
“Ronaldo is a pivotal figure for the future of Saudi foo renews tball,” said a source from the PIF. “He brings visibility, experience, and credibility that have accelerated the league’s rise.”
With the 2034 FIFA World Cup confirmed to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, the kingdom aims to use its investment in sports to reshape its global image and diversify its economy, making football central to its ambitions Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s Impact in Numbers
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has accumulated:
-
93 Goals in 105 Matches
-
25 Goals in the 2024–25 SPL season (Top Scorer)
Ronaldo’s stats highlight not only his individual brilliance but also his role as a motivator and mentor for teammates and younger talent. The “Ronaldo Effect” has inspired higher attendances across SPL matches and strengthened the league’s brand globally Cristiano Ronaldo.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Ronaldo’s move has boosted the SPL, it has also been met with skepticism and comparisons to the now-defunct Chinese Super League. The Chinese league, too, attracted top talents with huge salaries until the economic bubble burst, leaving several clubs insolvent Cristiano Ronaldo.
Saudi authorities, however, have learned from those lessons. They have combined hefty investments in sports with long-term economic planning, making sure that clubs have institutional support and financial stability beyond short-term gains. The PIF’s role as the custodian of the biggest clubs is one example of this strategy Cristiano Ronaldo renews .
Ronaldo and Al Nassr’s Trophy Quest
Although Ronaldo has been prolific individually, team accolades have been harder to secure. Al Nassr finished the 2023–24 SPL season in third place, falling short of both domestic and continental glory. The club was eliminated from the Asian Champions League in the semi-finals, highlighting the challenges that remain.
“Winning titles with Al Nassr is my priority now,” said Ronaldo in a recent press conference. “I came to Saudi Arabia to make a difference — and I will continue to give my best every match until the end of my career renews .”
With the new contract in place, Al Nassr aims to build a team around Ronaldo that can dominate both domestically and in Asia renews .
The Bigger Picture: Saudi Arabia’s Football Ambition
Saudi Arabia’s investments in football are part of its Vision 2030 initiative — a blueprint for economic diversification and global engagement. The kingdom aims to evolve from an oil-reliant state into a global business and tourism destination. Sports have become an integral piece of that puzzle.
The successful bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup confirms the kingdom’s long-term commitment. By bringing elite talents like Ronaldo to the SPL, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a premier destination for football and sports in general.
The Ronaldo Effect: Culture and Society
Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia has had a profound impact beyond football. It has:
-
Created new role models for young Saudi athletes Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Inspired a growing youth interest in sports and fitness Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Attracted international media attention and boosted tourism Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Accelerated infrastructural investments, including stadium upgrades Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Ronaldo is more than a footballer for us — he is an ambassador for change,” said a senior official from the Saudi General Entertainment Authority. “Through sports, we are reshaping perceptions and fostering connections across borders.”
The Competition: Al Nassr vs Al Hilal vs Al Ahli
While Al Nassr has Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League boasts other global stars across rival teams. Al Hilal’s signing of Neymar Jr. (although hampered by injuries) and Al Ahli’s acquisition of Roberto Firmino have created a highly competitive environment within the SPL Cristiano Ronaldo.
Each match is now a global spectacle, drawing millions of viewers from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The league has evolved into a compelling mix of elite veteran talent and promising young players, making every matchday an event Cristiano Ronaldo.
Will Ronaldo Retire in Saudi Arabia?
While nothing is certain, the recent contract extension suggests that Ronaldo may end his career in Saudi Arabia. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has openly stated in interviews that he feels a strong sense of belonging in the kingdom.
“Saudi Arabia has been very welcoming to me and my family,” said Ronaldo. “I am proud to be a part of this project that goes beyond football. We are making history together.”
With an extension until 2027 and the 2034 World Cup firmly in sight, Ronaldo is poised to remain a central figure in the kingdom’s sports and entertainment renaissance Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Legacy: What Will This Mean for the Game?
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr will be remembered as a pivotal moment in football history. At a time when veteran stars typically chose less competitive leagues for a final payday, Ronaldo’s move signaled the beginning of a bold new chapter for the global game Cristiano Ronaldo.
For Saudi Arabia, it is an assertion of its growing role as a powerhouse in sports. The kingdom aims to host international tournaments, attract global talent, and become a center of excellence in football. The presence of a player like Ronaldo serves as the foundation upon which these aspirations can be built Cristiano Ronaldo.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
With Ronaldo signed until 2027, Al Nassr and the Saudi Pro League are poised for an exciting era. Fans can expect more thrilling matches, iconic moments, and milestones that will further solidify the league’s place on the global sports map.
As Ronaldo himself said, “This chapter is over” when referring to his European journey. But in Saudi Arabia, a new chapter has only just begun — one that will define the future of football in the Middle East and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why did Ronaldo extend his contract with Al Nassr until 2027?
Ronaldo chose to stay with Al Nassr due to the club’s ambitious project, its role in the growing Saudi Pro League, and its long-term vision aligning with his personal and professional aspirations.
Q2. How many goals has Ronaldo scored for Al Nassr?
As of June 2025, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances across all competitions for Al Nassr.
Q3. Will Ronaldo retire in Saudi Arabia?
While not confirmed, the extension until 2027 suggests that Ronaldo may consider ending his playing career in the kingdom.
Q4. What is the significance of Ronaldo’s stay for Saudi Arabian football?
Ronaldo’s presence has boosted the global profile of the SPL, attracted other star talents, inspired younger generations, and contributed to making Saudi Arabia a future hub for sports and entertainment.
Q5. Will Al Nassr win a major trophy with Ronaldo?
Although Al Nassr has yet to win a league or continental title with Ronaldo, the club aims to build a competitive squad around him to achieve this goal in the coming seasons.
