Cristiano Ronaldo Extends Al-Nassr Stay with New Two-Year Deal Beyond 42nd Birthday
Cristiano Ronaldo has ended all rumours of his departure from Saudi Arabia by signing a new two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr, keeping him at the club until 2027.
The announcement comes just weeks after the Portuguese star hinted at an exit following Al-Nassr’s disappointing season.
Despite being the top scorer over the last two campaigns, Ronaldo’s efforts have not been enough to secure the Saudi Pro League title for Al-Nassr, nor did the club qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup.
His frustration with the club’s performance sparked speculation about a possible return to Europe, but recent developments indicate otherwise.
Official Confirmation and Record-Breaking Deal
Al-Nassr made the announcement on social media, stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.” Soon after, reports emerged detailing the lucrative deal Ronaldo has signed, making it the most expensive contract in sporting history.
According to Talksport, Ronaldo is set to earn £178 million per year, approximately €400 million or ₹2000 crore over the next two years. In addition to his base salary, the contract includes several significant perks and bonuses:
£24.5 million signing bonus (increasing to £38 million in the second year)
£8 million bonus if Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League
£5 million bonus for winning the Asian Champions League
£4 million bonus for winning the Golden Boot
15% ownership stake in Al-Nassr, valued at £33 million
£80,000 bonus per goal, increasing by 20% in the second year
£40,000 bonus per assist, also increasing by 20% in the second year
£60 million in promised sponsorship deals
£4 million for private jet expenses covered by the club
Ronaldo’s Journey in Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo initially joined Al-Nassr in 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United. His arrival marked the beginning of a wave of football stars moving to Saudi Arabia, drawn by lucrative offers and the promise of growing the sport in the region.
At 40 years old, Ronaldo’s time in Saudi Arabia has had its ups and downs. Though he led the goal-scoring charts, Al-Nassr failed to win major domestic or continental titles.
The club’s best achievement under Ronaldo’s leadership has been winning the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023.
In the last two Saudi Pro League seasons, Al-Nassr finished second twice and secured a third-place finish most recently.
After the club’s underwhelming campaign, Ronaldo posted “This chapter is over,” hinting at a possible exit. However, the latest agreement with Al-Nassr suggests he will now likely end his playing career in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Nassr’s Efforts to Retain Ronaldo
The club, along with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), recognised Ronaldo’s importance both on and off the pitch.
An insider from the Saudi Pro League told The Sun that the league was “very worried” about losing Ronaldo, especially with other clubs looking to sign him during the transfer window.
To secure his stay, Al-Nassr offered him an unprecedented package that includes not only financial benefits but also a 15% ownership stake in the club.
This ownership move reflects the club’s desire to keep Ronaldo close even after his retirement, ensuring he remains a key figure in attracting players, sponsors, and global attention.
Ronaldo’s Lifestyle and Additional Perks
The Sun report also highlighted the lifestyle perks included in the deal. Al-Nassr will cover £4 million worth of private jet expenses and have arranged for a full-time staff of 16 people for Ronaldo and his family, including drivers, housekeepers, chefs, gardeners, and security personnel, at a cost of around £1.4 million.
A Strategic Move for Saudi Football
Ronaldo’s influence has been pivotal in promoting Saudi football globally. “Ronaldo’s presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi league in the last two years and a half,” a PIF source told AFP.
His presence has encouraged elite players to consider playing in the region, increasing the league’s global visibility.
An insider from Al-Nassr added, “They had to give him everything he wanted and do everything to keep him, as they know that pretty much the entire present of the league, and part of its future, relies on CR7’s shoulders and presence.”
