Ronaldo’s future revealed: the Saudi commitment | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo has laid any doubts about his immediate future to rest with the confirmation of his two-year contract extension at Al-Nassr, a move accompanied by public affirmations of his ongoing commitment to both the club and the Saudi project. According to Saudi Pro League and multiple European sources including 90min and Marca, the Portuguese forward’s new deal runs through June 2027 and solidifies his central role on and off the pitch.

Speaking to the club's media, Ronaldo outlined his motivations for staying: “My goal is always to win something important for Al-Nassr. I still believe in that. This is why I renewed for two more years—because I believe that I will be champion in Saudi Arabia.” He admitted to receiving offers, including for the FIFA Club World Cup, but prioritized rest and preparation for both club and the Portugal national team: “This season will be very long… I want to be ready not only for Al-Nassr, but also for the national team.”

The extension arrives after intense speculation about a possible move to another continent, but Ronaldo stressed the uniqueness of the project in Saudi Arabia. “I believe in the project, not just for the next two years, but until 2034, with the [FIFA] World Cup coming to Saudi Arabia. I want to fight with the best teams in Saudi to win the league.”

European press reports put his new annual wage at €209 million, a record figure, bolstered by a signing bonus worth €28.7 million and further bonuses for goals, assists, and team achievements. Equally notable is a 15% equity stake in Al-Nassr included in the agreement, tying Ronaldo’s long-term interests even closer to the club. The contract also features a robust personal support package, ranging from chefs to security, reflecting both his stature and Al-Nassr's investment.

Ronaldo’s influence extends well beyond football. He repeated his appreciation for life in the Kingdom: “My family is happy in Saudi. We have a good life. The Saudi people treat us very, very well.” He underlined that his involvement isn’t limited to football success but also encompasses “the growth of the country forever,” emphasizing his personal stake in Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions.

On the league’s trajectory, Ronaldo was emphatic: “We’re already in the top five leagues in the world, in my opinion. Only people who have never played here don’t understand how competitive it is.” He urged fans to support the push for silverware, commenting, “With them, we’re going to be stronger.”

As Al-Nassr turn the page on last season, which ended without major honours, Ronaldo is optimistic: “Last season is past. Now we have to believe in the present. I believe that this season we’re going to do an amazing season and we are going to win something very, very important.”

Sources: Saudi Pro League, 90min, Marca, The Sun

Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images