Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s most iconic figures, has officially agreed to extend his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. The extension, which will keep the Portuguese star in Riyadh until June 2026, marks another significant chapter in his already illustrious career. Despite recently turning 40, Ronaldo’s influence continues to dominate the sport, and his decision to prolong his stay with Al Nassr solidifies his commitment to the kingdom’s evolving football landscape.
The official announcement, which is expected in the coming days, was confirmed by a source close to Al Nassr. Although the deal has not yet been officially signed, the terms are agreed upon, ensuring that Ronaldo will remain a pivotal figure in the club’s ambitions for the next year.
“I’m happy here, I feel good, and I’m excited about what we can achieve,” Ronaldo said in a recent interview, hinting at his long-term plans. His decision to extend his stay with Al Nassr was expected, following his statements last August, when he declared his intent to stay with the club until the end of his professional career, potentially a few years down the line. “It’ll most likely happen with Al Nassr, in the team that makes me happy,” Ronaldo explained at the time.
The Shift to Saudi Arabia: A Game-Changer for Ronaldo
When Ronaldo made the controversial move to Al Nassr in January 2023, many saw it as the beginning of the end of his illustrious career. His departure from Europe’s top leagues, where he had become a legend with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, was widely interpreted as a lucrative, albeit final, payday. Reports at the time suggested that Ronaldo’s deal with Al Nassr was worth a staggering $250 million.
However, what seemed like a quiet, end-of-career move quickly turned into a transformative period for both the player and the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo’s signing triggered a wave of high-profile moves by other ageing superstars, further elevating the stature of the Saudi league and turning Riyadh into a destination for football icons.
“Ronaldo’s impact goes beyond the pitch,” said Khaled Al-Hashim, a prominent Saudi sports analyst. “He’s become the face of the Saudi Pro League. His presence is a major part of the country’s efforts to position itself as a powerhouse in global sports.”
Ronaldo’s decision to join Al Nassr was not just about his football career. It aligned perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to use sports, tourism, and culture as key pillars in their Vision 2030 campaign—a program designed to diversify the kingdom’s economy and boost its international reputation. This ambitious push took another giant leap forward in December 2022, when Saudi Arabia was awarded the hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Ronaldo’s Influence: A Global Impact
Off the pitch, Ronaldo’s star power has proven equally influential. When he launched his YouTube channel in August 2024, the response was astronomical. Within just 90 minutes, his channel gained a million subscribers, and by the end of the day, that number had swelled to 20 million. Today, he boasts a following of 73.5 million—making him one of the most followed athletes in the world.
This global reach aligns perfectly with the Saudi government’s strategy to position the nation as a cultural and sports epicenter, capable of attracting international talent and attention. Ronaldo’s influence, therefore, extends far beyond football—he has become a symbol of the kingdom’s new ambitions.
“Ronaldo’s presence has brought attention to the league that we have never seen before,” said Fawaz Al-Mansour, a football journalist based in Riyadh. “It’s not just about football. It’s about changing perceptions of Saudi Arabia globally.”
Achievements and Future Goals with Al Nassr
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has proven that age is merely a number. With 82 goals in 90 matches, his goal-scoring prowess remains as sharp as ever. Yet, despite his remarkable individual achievements, he has yet to secure a major trophy with the club. His only victory so far has been the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup.
This lack of silverware is something Ronaldo is determined to change. “I am here to win,” he has often said. “I want to contribute to Al Nassr’s rise in the Saudi Pro League and beyond.” Despite the growing presence of big names in the league, including former Barcelona star Luis Suárez and French World Cup winner N’Golo Kanté, Ronaldo’s ambition to leave a legacy with the club remains strong.
His extension until 2026 gives the club the stability needed to continue building around him, with an eye on future domestic and continental trophies. Al Nassr’s management is keen to surround Ronaldo with the necessary support to elevate the club’s standing, and his continued presence will undoubtedly serve as a magnet for further talent to Saudi Arabia.
What Lies Ahead for Ronaldo and Al Nassr?
Ronaldo’s extended contract is not only a personal milestone but also part of a broader narrative that sees the Saudi Pro League attempting to break into the ranks of the top football leagues globally. With the 2034 World Cup set to be hosted in Saudi Arabia, the country is focused on laying the groundwork for a future where their domestic league is considered among the best in the world.
While Ronaldo may have missed out on winning the World Cup—a dream that still eludes him—it is clear that his contributions to Saudi football will be remembered for years to come. Whether or not he can lead Al Nassr to the coveted Saudi Pro League title or continental glory remains to be seen, but his legacy as the driving force behind the league’s rise is assured.
