Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract extension with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, committing to the team until 2027, the club announced Thursday, ending months of speculation over his future.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027,” the club posted on X, accompanied by a teaser video showing the Portuguese forward walking on a beach, declaring, “Al Nassr forever.”
Ronaldo, now 40, joined Al Nassr in early 2023, marking a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to attract international football talent. His arrival was seen as a catalyst for a wave of big-name signings to the Saudi Pro League.
Despite finishing the season as the league’s top scorer with 25 goals, Ronaldo’s side ended the 2023/24 campaign without silverware, placing third in the domestic league and falling short in the semi-finals of the Asian Champions League.
Last month, shortly after the season ended, Ronaldo sparked speculation about his departure with a cryptic post reading, “This chapter is over.” However, Thursday’s extension quells any rumors of an imminent exit.
A source from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns several Pro League clubs including Al Nassr, told AFP last month: “Ronaldo’s presence has been a key factor in the league’s development. He’s paved the way for both elite and emerging talents to come to Saudi Arabia.”
Ronaldo’s commitment comes amid Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in football, backed by the oil-rich PIF. The country is also set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034, further positioning itself as a rising power in global sports.
The extension also follows Brazilian star Neymar’s early departure from Al Hilal due to injury, despite earning a reported $104 million annually during his brief stay. Ronaldo, in contrast, has remained a consistent performer for Al Nassr.
Last year, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner hinted that he could retire at Al Nassr, a team closely associated with Saudi royalty.
