Cristiano Ronaldo’s Potential Investment in Almería

The world of football is abuzz with speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future, not on the pitch but in the realm of sports ownership. According to reports from Marca in Spain, the Portuguese superstar is considering joining the newly acquired Almería, now under the Saudi investment group SMC Group, led by Mohammed Al-Huraigi.

Ronaldo’s Relationship with Al-Huraigi

Ronaldo and Al-Huraigi are said to share a close personal relationship, which is significant given that Al-Huraigi played a crucial role in Ronaldo’s transition from European football to the Saudi league in December 2022. This connection may pave the way for Ronaldo’s involvement with Almería, potentially as a shareholder.

Ronaldo’s Business Ventures

Over the past decade, Ronaldo has cultivated a vast business and investment empire beyond his football career. His ventures span various industries, including hospitality, fashion, technology, health, and sports. He currently holds stakes in several brands, such as URSU water, the health app ERAKULIS, the athlete rehabilitation brand Avathletes, CR7 Underwear, CR7 Fragrances, and CR7 Footwear. The possibility of investing in Almería could represent his next significant business endeavor.

Future Involvement with Almería

Reports suggest that Ronaldo is contemplating purchasing shares in the Saudi investment group that bought Almería, which is involved in media, advertising, and sports. His deepening relationship with Al-Huraigi indicates that Ronaldo may take on various roles within the club in the near future. Notably, the SMC (Saudi Media Company) also manages advertising spaces for the Saudi Broadcasting Authority and holds management rights to Al-Nassr’s Al-Awal Park stadium, where Ronaldo currently plays. This venue is slated to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034.

Current Management and Team Prospects

Despite the potential ownership change, the current management of Almería will remain in place, including head coach Ruby and his staff, who have contracts until 2027. The team is still in contention for promotion to La Liga, with critical playoff matches ahead in the final three games of the season.

Mohammed Al-Huraigi’s Influence

Mohammed Al-Huraigi is considered a significant player in Saudi Arabia’s business landscape. He chairs the Executive Committee of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry and heads the board of MBC Media Solutions, the region’s largest media company. Al-Huraigi has also recently been appointed to the Saudi Boxing Federation’s board and serves as the CEO of Al Arabia OHH, the largest outdoor advertising firm in the kingdom.

As Ronaldo contemplates this new chapter, the football world waits to see how this potential investment will unfold, which could further deepen his ties within the sport