Ronaldo Commits to Al Nassr Through 2027, Dismissing Exit Speculation

Cristiano Ronaldo has put an end to speculation about his future by signing a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr, the Saudi Arabian club announced on Thursday. This agreement ensures the football superstar will remain with the team until 2027.

Cristiano Ronaldo pictured during a match.

The 40-year-old icon confirmed his continued commitment to the club by declaring "Al Nassr forever" in a video released by the team.

Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr in 2023 set off a wave of transfers, with numerous established players choosing to continue their careers in Saudi Arabia.

Rumors surrounding Ronaldo's future surfaced after he posted "This chapter is over" following Al Nassr's third-place finish in the Saudi Pro League, a season in which they failed to secure any silverware.

According to a source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), "Ronaldo's presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi league in the last two years and a half. He opens the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia."

The Saudi PIF oversees several Pro League clubs, including Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli.

The announcement of Ronaldo's extension comes after Brazilian star Neymar's departure from Al Hilal in January. Neymar's short 18-month tenure saw him participate in only seven matches, despite earning a reported $104 million annually.

Despite leading the league with 25 goals, Ronaldo has yet to win a Saudi or continental title with Al Nassr. The team recently suffered a defeat in the Asian Champions League semi-finals.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had previously hinted at the possibility of ending his illustrious career with Al Nassr.

Saudi Arabia has dramatically reshaped its football landscape through substantial investments in European talent, a trend that began with Ronaldo's transfer in late 2022. The nation is also poised to host the 2034 World Cup.

Saudi football fans have enjoyed the opportunity to watch prominent players such as Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, who collectively boast six Ballons d'Or, in regular league matches.

Some observers have drawn comparisons between the Saudi Pro League and the Chinese Super League, which also attracted players with lucrative salaries before encountering financial challenges.

The Saudi Pro League's growth is in line with the country's broader objectives of establishing itself as a prominent tourism and business hub before the global demand for oil decreases.

Ronaldo initially joined Al Nassr two years ago in a deal reportedly valued at $250 million, a move that signaled a significant shift in his career towards Saudi Arabian football.