In February of this year, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> announced the purchase of a stake in Union Deportiva Almeria, a second-division club in Spain. That move could now cause a headache for the forward, following a claim from Flamengo.



“Almeria owes Flamengo around €1.8 million for 590 days. In February, the athlete Cristiano Ronaldo acquired 25% of the Spanish club,” Flamengo said in a <a href="https://www.flamengo.com.br/noticias/futebol/nota-oficial--almeria-deve-ao-flamengo-cerca-de---1-8-milhao-ha-590-dias">statement published on its official website</a> this week.



According to the Brazilian giants, the situation stems from the transfer of Lazaro in August 2022. The left winger was transferred at the time from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/flamengo">Flamengo</a> to Almeria in a deal reported to be around $8 million. As part of that transfer, the Brazilian side had to cover taxes applied in Spain and has since been seeking reimbursement from Almeria for those expenses.



“Even after Flamengo was compelled to bear such amounts — totaling over €1.5 million — and following a formal FIFA decision fully recognizing its right to reimbursement, Almeria chooses not to fulfill its obligation,” the statement added. “The debt after 590 days of default exceeds €1,800,000.00.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">OFFICIAL STATEMENT ALMERÍA HAS OWED FLAMENGO AROUND € 1.8 MILLION FOR 590 DAYS In February, the athlete Cristiano Ronaldo acquired 25% of the Spanish club Clube de Regatas do Flamengo hereby publicly expresses its vehement repudiation of the conduct adopted by the Spanish…— FL4MEN9O (@Flamengo_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Flamengo_en/status/2039442107698499721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Flamengo outline next steps</h2>



After providing context for the claim against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria/">Almeria</a>, Flamengo detailed the steps it plans to take in its attempt to recover the more than $2 million it had to pay at the time for Lazaro’s transfer.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-fitness-under-spotlight-as-portugal-boss-roberto-martinez-addresses-2026-world-cup-impact-concerns/"></div>


“Flamengo trusts that the competent bodies, particularly the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), will provide the appropriate response to this behavior, ensuring compliance with the decisions already issued within FIFA and the observance of the commitments undertaken,” the official statement said.



<h2>Almeria’s debt predates Ronaldo’s arrival</h2>



As made clear by Flamengo’s account of events, the claim originated long before Cristiano Ronaldo became one of the owners of Almeria. Between Lazaro’s purchase in August 2022 and Ronaldo’s appearance as the owner of 25% of the Spanish club, three and a half years elapsed.



Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s new role in Almeria’s structure necessarily makes him involved in this conflict, which could become a headache for him in his first foray into this type of ownership activity.

Cristiano Ronaldo involved in $2 million claim from Flamengo after Almeria takeover

Cristiano Ronaldo involved in $2 million claim from Flamengo after Almeria takeover - World Soccer Talk

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has once again made headlines, not on the pitch, but in the boardroom, this time sparking a global spotlight on Almeria. The Portuguese superstar’s recent acquisition of a stake in the Spanish club has immediately transformed its profile, drawing attention from fans, sponsors, and media around the world. Alongside him, La Liga president Javier Tebas has praised the strategic effect of CR7’s involvement, highlighting the wider impact of his global influence.



The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al-Nassr</a> forward is no stranger to changing the game, and now he brings his vision and brand power into club ownership. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria">Almeria</a>, historically a modest side in Spanish soccer, has seen its international visibility soar, with social media followings surging and sponsor interest intensifying. This unique combination of sporting ambition and global appeal makes Ronaldo’s investment far more than just a financial transaction; it’s a statement of intent.



In a calculated step beyond his illustrious playing career, Ronaldo secured a 25% stake in Almeria through his company, CR7 Sports Investments. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has been vocal about his desire to extend his influence beyond soccer’s pitch. As he explained, “I have long had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I wish to work with the team leading the club to support it in its new phase of growth.”



This investment is not just symbolic. By taking an active role, the 41-year-old superstar positions himself as both an investor and a strategic partner, leveraging his reputation to accelerate Almeria’s evolution. The move signals a new era for the club, combining sporting ambition with commercial and digital growth.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/28072421/ronaldo-al-nassr-almeria-1920x1080.webp" alt="ronaldo al nassr almeria" class="wp-image-624774"><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo reacts</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What did Tebas say about Ronaldo’s transformative impact?</h2>



Now, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a> president Javier Tebas has underlined the profound effect Ronaldo has had on Almeria. Speaking during the presentation of La Liga’s 2024-2025 economic report, Tebas emphasised the surge in digital presence triggered by Ronaldo’s involvement.



“At least on a media level, it has made Almeria increase their followers on social networks by 25 per cent, and if I am not mistaken, it has become the fifth or sixth club in Spain with the most followers. If that achieves an appropriate ‘engagement’, today, being in the field of social networks with many followers gives you a lot of value when looking for sponsors and everything that entails around it,” he explained.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/Javier-Tebas/">Tebas</a> also highlighted the commercial opportunities created by Ronaldo’s presence. “I believe that for Almeria, a player like Cristiano Ronaldo, as an investor and an ally, gives them a significant boost that I think they are going to take advantage of, because they are working on it, and I think it is an important part of the reason why Cristiano Ronaldo is at Almeria.”



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Javier Tebas - La industria del fútbol: desafíos actuales y perspectivas del futuro" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6gohN--FoLM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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The combination of a growing audience and interactive engagement has not only increased the club’s profile but also its marketability to international brands. For Almeria, this is a rare opportunity to convert sporting potential into tangible economic returns, amplifying their presence both on and off the pitch.



<h2>Sporting ambitions and La Liga return remain the priority</h2>



While off-field developments attract headlines, head coach Rubi remains focused on the on-field challenge. The Rojiblancos are currently locked in a fierce battle for automatic promotion from the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/segunda-division/">Segunda Division</a>, sitting third in the standings, level on points with second-placed Deportivo La Coruna. The ultimate goal remains clear: a return to Spain’s top flight by the final matchday.



Ronaldo’s presence, however, offers more than prestige. His involvement brings credibility and resources that can support recruitment, training infrastructure, and strategic growth, potentially laying the foundation for Almeria to sustain top-tier soccer once they secure promotion.

Cristiano Ronaldo sparks global spotlight on Almeria as La Liga president Javier Tebas hails CR7’s transformative effect

Cristiano Ronaldo sparks global spotlight on Almeria as La Liga president Javier Tebas hails CR7's transformative effect - World Soccer Talk

The influence of&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>&nbsp;continues to extend far beyond the pitch. While the Portuguese superstar focuses on his duties with&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al-Nassr</a>, his growing involvement with Almeria&nbsp;in Spain has placed the Andalusian club under a global spotlight.



After a crucial victory pushed Almeria closer to returning to the Spanish top flight, the club received a notable reaction from its new high-profile co-owner. The message was brief but powerful, quickly drawing attention across social media and reinforcing the sense that the project in southern Spain is gaining serious momentum. With the promotion race heating up in the&nbsp;Segunda Division, the timing of Ronaldo’s public support could hardly have been more significant.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria/">Almeria</a>’s push for a return to&nbsp;La Liga&nbsp;gained a huge boost after the team secured a convincing&nbsp;3-0 victory over&nbsp;Cultural Leonesa. The win was more than just another three points.&nbsp;It propelled the team into the automatic promotion places, moving the club up to&nbsp;second in the league standings&nbsp;after 29 matches. That position carries enormous importance in Spain’s second tier, as the top two teams earn direct promotion to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a> at the end of the season.



For the Spanish ide, the climb up the table represents a dramatic turnaround. The club had endured a difficult period following its&nbsp;relegation from La Liga in April 2024, but recent performances suggest a team rediscovering both confidence and consistency.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="🎥 Resumen | UD Almería 3-0 CyD Leonesa" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Mtc2wbs-YUA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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In fact,&nbsp;the victory marked Almeria’s fifth win in their last six league matches, underlining the impressive form that has revived hopes of an immediate return to the top flight. The surge in results has come during a time of transformation for the club. A&nbsp;Saudi-backed investment group entered the project in May 2025, and the involvement of Ronaldo earlier this year has only increased the sense that a new era is beginning.



<h2>Cristiano Ronaldo’s investment changes the narrative</h2>



Recently, Ronaldo officially became a part of Almeria’s ownership structure by purchasing&nbsp;a 25 percent stake in the club&nbsp;through his investment company. The move instantly boosted the club’s global profile.



According to reports,&nbsp;the club’s social media following surged dramatically after the deal, with Almeria rising to become&nbsp;the fifth most-followed Spanish soccer club on Instagram, boasting approximately&nbsp;3.2 million followers. Only giants such as&nbsp;Real Madrid, Barcelona,&nbsp;Atletico Madrid, and&nbsp;Sevilla&nbsp;now rank ahead of them in Spain’s digital landscape.



The investment reflects Ronaldo’s growing interest in soccer ownership and long-term sporting projects. But despite the commercial benefits, the immediate focus remains firmly on the pitch:&nbsp;promotion back to La Liga.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Almeria’s instagram followers before and after announcing Ronaldo’s stakes at the club. Influence. <a href="https://t.co/NcAhFIrE0t">pic.twitter.com/NcAhFIrE0t</a>— 𝐟𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐯 (@heis_fede) <a href="https://twitter.com/heis_fede/status/2027146199883526527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



<h2>What did Ronaldo say?</h2>



Shortly after the final whistle against Cultural Leonesa, Ronaldo took to social media to congratulate the team. Despite currently recovering from a hamstring injury in Madrid, the 41-year-old remains closely connected to the club’s progress. His message, posted on Instagram, quickly spread among supporters and media outlets. Ronaldo took to social media to write: “Great win today. We continue.” 



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">📲 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Cristiano Ronaldo on Instagram, celebrating his club Almeria winning a game tonight. <a href="https://t.co/OQgOMZkyIq">pic.twitter.com/OQgOMZkyIq</a>— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) <a href="https://twitter.com/TouchlineX/status/2031124901705171204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



Those&nbsp;five words carried symbolic weight, reflecting both encouragement and determination as Almeria’s promotion push enters a crucial phase. For a squad dealing with the pressure of expectation,&nbsp;the public backing of one of soccer’s greatest players serves as a powerful psychological boost.



While the result strengthened Almeria’s position, the road to promotion remains long. The Rojiblancos currently sit&nbsp;four points behind league leaders&nbsp;Racing Santander, meaning the battle for the title and automatic promotion remains wide open.

Cristiano Ronaldo fires up Almeria with powerful five-word message after crucial La Liga promotion step

Cristiano Ronaldo fires up Almeria with powerful five-word message after crucial La Liga promotion step - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has done it again. This time, however, the impact has not come from a free-kick, a towering header, or a last-minute winner, but from a move in the boardroom. In the space of just 24 hours, the Portuguese icon has already begun reshaping the trajectory of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria/">Almeria</a>&nbsp;after acquiring a&nbsp;25% stake in the Spanish second-division club, sparking what many are already calling the “GOAT effect.”



The announcement confirmed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner completed the deal through&nbsp;CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 S.A., marking a significant step in his growing business empire and signaling a clear vision beyond his playing career. In a statement published on the club’s official website, the Andalusian side outlined the scale of the move.



“Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in UD Almeria through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 S.A., marking a major step in both the Club’s international expansion and the Portuguese icon’s growing investment portfolio,”&nbsp;the club confirmed.



Club president Mohamed Al Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s arrival with visible enthusiasm: “We’re very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our Club to invest in,”&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;“He is considered the greatest player in history, knows Spanish football extremely well and understands the potential we are building both in the first team and at Academy level.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Official statement: Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD Almería as part of the club ownership consortium led by SMC Group <a href="https://t.co/0lk92FUjPH">pic.twitter.com/0lk92FUjPH</a>— UD Almería (@UDAlmeria_Eng) <a href="https://twitter.com/UDAlmeria_Eng/status/2026957612479090884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



Ronaldo himself made clear that this is not a symbolic gesture but part of a broader ambition. “It has been a long-held ambition of mine to contribute to football beyond just on the pitch,”&nbsp;he stated.&nbsp;“UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the next phase of the club’s growth.”



<h2>The hidden impact revealed</h2>



While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, the immediate impact has been impossible to ignore. Within just one day of the announcement,&nbsp;Almeria gained nearly three million followers on Instagram, with the club’s account skyrocketing from roughly 10,000 to approximately 2.8 million followers in 24 hours.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UD Almeria’s Instagram followers before and after Cristiano Ronaldo’s co ownership.😳 His influence is MASSIVE🤯 <a href="https://t.co/EaDlO6m3Ky">pic.twitter.com/EaDlO6m3Ky</a>— Sport Xparte (@sport_xparte) <a href="https://twitter.com/sport_xparte/status/2027308585592467691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



The surge represents one of the most dramatic social media growth spikes ever recorded by a European second-division side, a clear illustration of Ronaldo’s unmatched global influence. The numbers also underline a powerful reality: Ronaldo’s brand transcends divisions, countries, and even roles. Whether as a player for&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al-Nassr</a>&nbsp;or now as a stakeholder in Spain, his presence alone generates worldwide attention.



<h2>Club on the brink of promotion</h2>



The timing of the investment could prove decisive. Almeria currently sits&nbsp;third in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/segunda-division/">Segunda Division</a> with 48 points from 27 matches, trailing league leader&nbsp;Racing Santander&nbsp;by just two points. In Spain’s second tier, the top two teams secure automatic promotion to La Liga, while third to sixth enter a playoff for the final promotion spot.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/28072423/ronaldo-almeria-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="ronaldo almeria" class="wp-image-624775"><figcaption>ristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid is tackled by Marcelo Silva of UD Almeria</figcaption></figure>



The club, founded in 1989, has experienced six seasons in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a>, most recently in the 2022/23 campaign. Its historic peak came in the 2010-11 season with a Copa del Rey semi-final run. Now, with promotion within reach, Ronaldo’s arrival adds not just capital but global visibility and commercial leverage at a critical juncture.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s immediate impact felt at Almeria after shock investment as his brand power translates into instant club gains

Cristiano Ronaldo’s immediate impact felt at Almeria after shock investment as his brand power translates into instant club gains - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has once again placed himself at the center of the soccer conversation. The Portuguese superstar, still active at the highest level, has expanded his influence beyond the pitch and is now linked with a romantic return to Spanish soccer. For a player who continues to defy age at 41, Ronaldo’s latest move signals ambition that stretches far beyond goals and trophies. The forward, currently representing&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al-Nassr</a>, has taken a decisive step into club ownership, and Spanish soccer is watching closely.



In a significant development,&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria-2/">Almeria</a>, the Spanish Segunda Division club. The investment was made through CR7 Sports Investments, part of his broader business portfolio. In an official statement, the club confirmed:&nbsp;“Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired 25% of the shares of UD Almeria through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 SA, this being an important step in the continued expansion of both the club and the investment portfolio of the Portuguese businessman.”



The Portugal international himself described the move as&nbsp;“a long-held ambition of mine to contribute to soccer, beyond the pitch,”&nbsp;adding that&nbsp;“UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.”



The club, now owned by Saudi businessman Mohamed Al-Khereiji following a takeover from Turki Al-Sheikh, currently sits&nbsp;third in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/segunda-division/">Segunda Division</a>, just&nbsp;two points behind leader Racing Santander&nbsp;and firmly in the promotion race. The dream of a return to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a>&nbsp;remains alive.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Official statement: Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD Almería as part of the club ownership consortium led by SMC Group <a href="https://t.co/0lk92FUjPH">pic.twitter.com/0lk92FUjPH</a>— UD Almería (@UDAlmeria_Eng) <a href="https://twitter.com/UDAlmeria_Eng/status/2026957612479090884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



<h2>Almeria coach’s invitation: ‘It would be extraordinary’</h2>



While the investment alone sparked excitement, it was the words of head coach Rubi that ignited speculation. Speaking openly about Ronaldo’s involvement, Rubi said: “We are very happy. Obviously, we welcome him. I think it’s excellent news because someone like him, with his one hundred percent knowledge of sport and soccer, can help a club like ours.”



But it was his follow-up remark that truly fueled headlines: “It would be extraordinary and wonderful if he could play here, but that’s a question for him. This is his club and, if he wanted to continue playing, whoever the coach is, he would be received with open arms. I have no doubt about that.” The message was clear — the door, from a sporting perspective, is wide open.



<h2>Is it possible for Ronaldo to co-own Almeria and still play for the team?</h2>



While the romantic image of Ronaldo returning to Spanish soccer sparks imagination, the regulatory reality is more complicated. Under Spanish law, specifically regulations overseen by the National Sports Council and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), an active player cannot hold ownership interests in a Spanish club while competing domestically. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/24222529/ronaldo-al-nassr-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="ronaldo al nassr" class="wp-image-623929"><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr</figcaption></figure>



The measure, introduced in February 2025 and often referred to as the “Anti-Pique Law,” was designed to protect competitive integrity and avoid conflicts of interest. In simple terms,&nbsp;as long as Ronaldo retains his 25 percent ownership stake, he would be barred from registering as a player in Spain. The rule emerged following controversy involving&nbsp;Gerard Pique&nbsp;and commercial negotiations during his playing career.



Spanish authorities tightened governance standards to ensure transparency and fairness in competition. Therefore, unless Ronaldo were to divest or place his shares in a legally approved structure that removes direct influence, a playing comeback in Spain would not be permitted. For now, such a scenario appears unlikely. Ronaldo remains under contract with&nbsp;Al-Nassr&nbsp;until 2027.

Cristiano Ronaldo receives surprise invitation to play for Almeria: Would it even be possible after buying 25% stake in the ex-La Liga side?

Cristiano Ronaldo receives surprise invitation to play for Almeria: Would it even be possible after buying 25% stake in the ex-La Liga side? - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has joined Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius in redefining what it means to be a modern soccer superstar. No longer confined to the pitch, the Portuguese icon has stepped further into the business of the game, adding his name to a growing list of active players investing in clubs while still competing at the highest level.



Due to integrity restrictions, players are often unable to buy teams inside their own domestic systems. However, many have discovered methods to invest either abroad or via permitted organizations. In recent years, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a>, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius have all entered the ownership arena in different capacities. Now, Ronaldo has joined that elite circle.



The movement is unmistakable. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Mbappe</a> became the majority investor in Caen in 2024, reportedly committing around $24 million after his move to Spain ensured no conflict with French competition rules. Messi and Luis Suarez launched Deportivo LSM in Uruguay in 2025. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/vinicius-junior/">Vinicius</a>, Luka Modric, Thibaut Courtois, and N’Golo Kante have also expanded their influence through minority stakes in various clubs.



Ronaldo, however, has taken a particularly symbolic step: investing in a Spanish club he once tormented during his <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a> prime. Between 2009 and 2015, he faced the side seven times in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a>, scoring&nbsp;seven goals and providing five assists, remaining&nbsp;unbeaten with six wins and one draw.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨💣💥| OFFICIAL: Luis Suárez confirmed that Lionel Messi has joined his club Deportivo LS, founded in 2021, as a member. — From now on it will be called LSM and compete in the First Division of Uruguayan football. ✅ <a href="https://t.co/ZT3nSV8WcG">pic.twitter.com/ZT3nSV8WcG</a>— BeksFCB (@Joshua__Ubeku) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joshua__Ubeku/status/1927381805964902605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Ronaldo joins elite list</h2>



According to&nbsp;ESPN&nbsp;and confirmed by&nbsp;Brunswick Group, Ronaldo has purchased a&nbsp;25 percent ownership stake in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria">Almeria</a>, currently competing in Spain’s second division. The deal was executed through his company,&nbsp;CR7 Sports Investments, though financial details were not disclosed.



In an official statement, Ronaldo explained his motivation: “It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.” He added, “I have long had the ambition to contribute to soccer beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I wish to work with the team leading the club to support it in its new phase of growth.” 



The move represents a long-term investment for the 41-year-old, who continues to play for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al-Nassr</a> in Saudi Arabia and has recently extended his contract until June 2027.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Comunicado oficial: Cristiano Ronaldo invierte en la UD Almería como parte del consorcio propietario del club liderado por SMC Group <a href="https://t.co/0hGGWguEc0">pic.twitter.com/0hGGWguEc0</a>— UD Almería (@U_D_Almeria) <a href="https://twitter.com/U_D_Almeria/status/2026957590249279842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Saudi connections and strategic timing</h2>



Almeria has been under Saudi ownership since 2019. Former owner Turki Alalshikh sold the club to a Saudi-backed consortium led by Mohamed Al-Khereiji in 2025. Ronaldo’s strong ties to Saudi Arabia, where he earns a reported&nbsp;$236 million per year, appear to have facilitated the deal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/26095849/ronaldo-almeria-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-624215"></figure>



Al Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s involvement enthusiastically: “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in. He is considered the best on the pitch.” He continued: “He knows the Spanish leagues very well and understands the potential of what we are building here, both in terms of the team and the academy.”



Almeria currently sits&nbsp;third in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/segunda-division/">Segunda Division</a>, two points behind leaders Racing Santander, as it pushes for promotion after relegation from La Liga in 2023-24.

Cristiano Ronaldo joins Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius as Al-Nassr icon buys 25% stake in club he once tormented with Real Madrid in La Liga

Cristiano Ronaldo joins Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius as Al-Nassr icon buys 25% stake in club he once tormented with Real Madrid in La Liga - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>’s future at Al-Nassr is once again up in the air. After back-to-back disappointments in the Saudi Pro League and falling short in 11 title pursuits since arriving in the Middle East, speculation is mounting over the Portuguese star’s next move. While Brazilian club <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/botafogo/">Botafogo</a> is reportedly preparing a bold offer to lure the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a surprising candidate has emerged from Spain: UD Almería.



The Segunda División side, currently fighting for promotion, is now owned by Mohamed Al-Khereiji — a businessman with strong ties to Ronaldo and a key figure in his original move to Saudi Arabia. According to reports from MARCA, Al-Khereiji’s relationship with Ronaldo is both personal and strategic. Now, he may be positioning <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/almeria/">Almería</a> as a future investment and ownership opportunity for the veteran forward.



Ronaldo, who turns 40 next year, has expressed interest in a post-playing career in club ownership.



“If I have the chance to be an owner, why would I settle for being a director or CEO?” he previously stated. “It’s my dream, and I’m certain I’ll achieve it — not just owning one club, but several.”



While Almería is not among Europe’s elite, the project is ambitious. The club has had a turbulent decade, including stints under Middle Eastern ownership, and was relegated last season despite having one of the largest budgets in Spain’s second tier. As of now, they sit sixth with two games remaining, in playoff position for promotion to La Liga.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldos-impact-worldwide-a-brazilian-club-tried-to-sign-him-for-the-club-world-cup/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20250518_WST_570269_Cristiano-Ronaldo-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Cristiano Ronaldo’s spell at Al-Nassr has taken a sour turn. Knocked out of the AFC Champions League and stuck in fourth place at home, the Saudi club has little to celebrate. Frustration boiled over last Friday when the 40-year-old striker left the stadium immediately after a 1-1 draw with Al Taawoun, skipping the locker room altogether.
" title="Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact worldwide: A Brazilian club tried to sign him for the Club World Cup" publication_id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-impact-worldwide-a-brazilian-club-tried-to-sign-him-for-the-club-world-cup/"></div>


Cristiano Ronaldo has history with Almería, too. During his time at Real Madrid, he played seven matches against the Andalusian side, scoring seven goals and adding five assists. One standout performance came in 2011, when he notched two goals and four assists in an 8–1 thrashing. Ironically, the club he once tormented could soon be tied to his next chapter — not as a player, but as an investor.



Although a contract renewal with Al-Nassr seemed likely not long ago, the disappointing results may have opened the door for a change of scenery. Botafogo and Almería now appear to be the leading options — one offering a short-term spotlight on the world stage, the other a longer-term project in Spanish football and a bridge into Ronaldo’s post-retirement ambitions.



As the end of the season nears, the world waits to see what path CR7 chooses — back to Spain, a Brazilian adventure, or one more ride in Saudi Arabia.

Not only from Brazil: A surprising Spanish club shows interest in Cristiano Ronaldo but not as a player

Not only from Brazil: A surprising Spanish club shows interest in Cristiano Ronaldo but not as a player - World Soccer Talk

Almeria and Athletic Bilbao battled to a scoreless draw at home on Monday, cementing the former’s place in LaLiga annals.



In the first 24 rounds of La Liga, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/almeria-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Almeria</a> became the only side in league history to not win a single match. With just seven points, Gaiska Garitano’s team is in last place.



The Almeria loss on Monday brought its <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> winless streak to 27 matches, tied with Levante’s record. This winless run includes the games played towards the close of the previous term.



Before this, Huesca’s Sporting held the record. Their 1997-98 La Liga campaign began with a winless streak of 23 games. However, they eventually prevailed 2-1 against Racing Santander on the next matchday. Having accumulated 13 points, Sporting eventually finished the season in last place.



<h2>What went wrong for Almeria?</h2>



Under the ownership of the ambitious Saudi businessman Turki Al-Sheikh, Almeria earned promotion to La Liga in 2022. They managed to escape relegation last season with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Espanyol on the penultimate day.



After Coach Rubi unexpectedly departed in the summer, the club spent heavily on new players. Yet, there has been no indication of the team’s historically poor performance.



Then, Vicente Moreno faced a falling out with the club’s upper echelons, leading to his dismissal after just two points. Alberto Lasarte, the youth squad coach, took over as caretaker, and his sole game in charge reflected the struggles of the season.



Striker Luis Suarez scored a hat trick in the first five minutes of Almeria’s 3-0 halftime lead over fellow strugglers Granada at home. However, a jittery defense gave way at the first sign of a Granada comeback, leading to a 3-3 tie; Suarez’s three-month injury only made matters worse.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/02/16045414/Almeria-manager-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-489590" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



Even after making some defensive improvements, newly hired coach Gaizka Garitano’s squad nevertheless went winless in their first six league games. Even in the Copa del Rey, he was unable to find relief as fourth-tier Barbastro humiliatingly eliminated Almeria.



What followed was the worst chapter in soccer history, as that defeat severely eroded any remaining self-assurance.



<h2>Which club would Almeria overtake with this record?</h2>



Against strong competition, Almeria may seem to be a respectable squad. It is strange coming from a bunch that have failed to win a game all season.



Despite controlling the game for an hour on the road at Atletico Madrid, they were defeated 2-1. Additionally, they were poised to salvage a draw against champions <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> when Sergi Roberto scored a late winner.



They also had a fair 2-0 lead at halftime at the Bernabeu, but <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> scored twice in the second half. One was with the help of VAR, and then scored the <a href="https://youtu.be/nOqcosOmRco?si=0uSGfJTsphEzSvV6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game-winning goal in the 99th minute</a>.



The team’s inability to capitalize on good scoring opportunities is causing them to lose more games than they should. An additional example was their match against Valencia on the first weekend of February.



Gonzalo Melero, a midfielder, wasted a golden opportunity early on, and Hugo Duro, an unmarked opponent striker, scored the first goal two minutes later.



Curiously, these numbers aren’t the worst that Europe has ever seen. With 11 points in the 2007-08 Premier League season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/looking-back-at-derby-county-the-worst-team-in-premier-league-history-20160216-CMS-164469.html">Derby County</a> set a record for the poorest season in the history of Europe’s main five leagues, and Almeria is only on seven.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

LaLiga team achieves unprecedented negative feat

Almeria and Athletic Bilbao battled to a scoreless draw at home on Monday, which neared the former to an unwanted record.

The new week has seen the continuation of the aftermath of Sunday’s contentious match between Real Madrid and Almeria. It is because a VAR audio from two distinct events during the La Liga encounter went public without authorization.



Against last-place Almeria at home last weekend in the Spanish league, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> almost avoided a humiliating loss with the aid of VAR. The second half ended with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/xavi-says-itll-be-hard-to-win-laliga-when-refs-favor-real-madrid-20240122-WST-484918.html">three positive video evaluations</a> for the hosts.



Then, they rallied for a 3-2 victory against the lone side in the league without a victory this season. Carlo Ancelotti’s men netted the winning goal nine minutes into stoppage time. Carvajal’s late goal from close range devastated the Almeria players and coaching staff. The thrilling come-from-behind win ensured Real Madrid only trails Girona by one point in the league table. Ancelotti’s side has a game in hand, though, which means 



<h2>Internal discussions reach the public</h2>



Much controversy has surrounded referee Francisco Jose Hernandez Maeso and video assistant referee Alejandro Hernandez Hernandez. Together, they reversed many calls made on the pitch. That includes a handball penalty against Almeria defender Kaiky Fernandes.



In a different incident, VAR disallowed Sergio Arribas’ goal that temporarily gave Almeria a two-goal advantage. Meanwhile, they allowed Vinicus’ equalizer to stand after it was first disallowed for handball. The decisions left many fans scratching their heads about what happened in the VAR room.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/16050257/Real-Madrid-VAR-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-485230" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



After <a href="https://theathletic.com/5222096/2024/01/23/real-madrid-almeria-var-police/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much controversy in Spain</a>, journalist Gerard Romano released the video assistant referee talking around all three of the controversial judgments. A conversation between the two officials over Vinicius’ goal is evident in the audio.



The fact that this got out, however, is a huge issue for the Spanish Soccer Federation, or RFEF. Putting this kind of pressure on the officials has the potential to ruin the competition. RFEF referees are wondering how the Spanish journalist obtained the tape before making it public.



<h2>What did Spanish FA say about the Real Madrid VAR leak?</h2>



Since the officials did not review the play and declare any violation, they should have kept their VAR talks secret. They are strictly limiting any kind of publication to official reviews.



Thus, the Spanish FA has since launched an inquiry into the situation and the first leakers of the audio files. So, reporter <a href="https://twitter.com/JijantesFC/status/1749756704974163973" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gerard Romero and his Jijantes FC platform</a>, look to be the primary targets.



The probe is now over, and the RFEF has spoken out against the Real Madrid VAR leak. Adding to that, they have also revealed that the Spanish Civil Guard will be investigating the issue further.



“The Royal Spanish Football Federation has filed a complaint with the Guardia Civil on Tuesday after the publication of audios of the VAR system, of a totally professional and private scope, corresponding to the match between Real Madrid CF and UD Almeria in La Liga.



“The RFEF, which is keeping an internal investigation open after the aforementioned event, considers that it is extremely serious that this audio-visual material has been extracted and hopes that a response will be found as soon as possible to purge responsibilities.



“In addition, the necessary measures will be taken to ensure the security of all communications”, <a href="https://twitter.com/rfef/status/1749829039852831174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1749829039852831174%7Ctwgr%5E0e1c929e528554f0c8c6191bc030af56b1edb0a3%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.football-espana.net%2F2024%2F01%2F23%2Fspanish-football-federation-file-complaint-with-authorities-over-leaked-var-audio-from-real-madrid-almeria" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">they said in a statement</a>.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Real Madrid's VAR leak prompts Spanish FA to file complaint

The new week has seen the continuation of the aftermath of Sunday's contentious match between Real Madrid and Almeria with a VAR leak.

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