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Cristiano Ronaldo Reportedly Considering Valencia Ownership
Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo is surprisingly linked with a move into club ownership, with reports suggesting he is eyeing a LaLiga side. Speculation is mounting that the Portuguese superstar could purchase Valencia CF, marking a sensational return to Spanish football off the pitch.
Ronaldo’s Ambitions Beyond Playing Career
Just months after hinting at his post-retirement plans, the revelation has emerged. Ronaldo, currently aged 40 according to the article’s information which may be an error as typical reporting gives his age as younger, previously stated his intention to venture into club ownership once his illustrious playing career concludes. In December, the global football icon declared his future ambition, stating, “I’m still very young, I have so many plans and dreams ahead but mark my words, I will be the owner of a big club.”
Spanish Return as Club Owner?
Having spent nine successful seasons in LaLiga with Real Madrid, netting an impressive 450 goals in 438 appearances, Ronaldo departed for Juventus in 2018. Now, nearly seven years since leaving Spain, the Al-Nassr forward is reportedly exploring a return to LaLiga, not as a player, but as a club owner. Mundo Deportivo suggests Valencia is his target.
Links to Current Valencia Ownership
Fueling these speculations is Ronaldo’s close relationship with Valencia’s current owner, Singaporean businessman Peter Lim. This existing connection is cited as a key factor in the ongoing rumors surrounding a potential acquisition.
Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly interested in acquiring LaLiga club Valencia.
A condition of any potential sale is reportedly that Valencia must remain in the First Division of LaLiga.
Ronaldo could potentially receive financial support from Saudi Arabian sources.
Saudi Backing for Valencia Takeover?
Sources indicate that Ronaldo may have significant financial resources at his disposal, possibly stemming from the Saudi Arabian royal family, including Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), or the Saudi Public Investment Fund. Since his move to Saudi Arabia in late 2022, Ronaldo has become a prominent figure in the nation’s sporting landscape, frequently attending high-profile events.
Ronaldo’s Influence in Saudi Arabia
His considerable cultural impact has solidified his status as an icon within the Gulf state, fostering a strong rapport with MBS. This influence and potential financial muscle from Saudi Arabia could be pivotal in any Valencia takeover bid.
Relegation Clause in Potential Sale
The report further details a crucial condition attached to any prospective sale: Valencia must avoid relegation to the Second Division. Journalist Julian Redondo, in his Mundo Deportivo column, stated, “[Cristiano Ronaldo will be] the next owner of Valencia if they stay in the First Division,” highlighting the importance of Valencia’s LaLiga status.
Current Owner Denies Sale Intentions
However, Peter Lim has previously dismissed any suggestion of selling Valencia, informing Singaporean media outlets of his lack of interest in relinquishing ownership. This stance presents a potential hurdle to Ronaldo’s reported ambitions.
Valencia’s Current LaLiga Position
Valencia currently occupies 15th position in LaLiga standings, holding a four-pointbuffer above the relegation zone. Their next league fixture is against Real Madrid.
Valencia’s Estimated Value
In 2023, Forbes评估了 Valencia’s value at £169 million, taking into account various factors including matchday revenue, broadcasting agreements, commercial activities, brand strength, operating profit, debt, and stadium-related liabilities.
In December 2024, Ronaldo announced his ambition to own a major football club post-retirement.
Ronaldo’s estimated earnings for 2024 reached £202 million, while Valencia’s valuation is £169 million.
Ronaldo’s Substantial Earnings
Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s earnings in 2024 reached an estimated £202 million, according to Forbes. This figure comprises £155 million from his Al-Nassr contract and £47 million from endorsement deals, underscoring his immense financial power.
Long-Term Contract and Retirement Plans
The globally recognized athlete signed an extension with the Saudi club in January, a deal valued at over £167.9 million, committing him to Al-Nassr until June 2026. By contract expiry, Ronaldo will be 41 years old. He stated in August 2024, “I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al-Nassr,” suggesting a potential end to his playing career in Saudi Arabia.
Potential for Concurrent Ownership
However, Ronaldo may not need to wait until retirement to become a club owner. LaLiga and FIFA regulations permit a player to own a club in a different league, provided there is no competitive conflict between the clubs. As Al-Nassr and Valencia are unlikely to compete except in friendly matches, Ronaldo owning Valencia while still playing for Al-Nassr remains a theoretical possibility under current regulations.