After 8 years away from Spain, former Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo makes a surprise return to Spanish football with second division team UD Almeria.
The 41-year-old forward has acquired a 25% stake in Almeria. Last year, the club was acquired by a Saudi Investment Group, led by SMC Group.
Following his investment in the club, the Al Nassr captain issued his official statement. He said, "I have long had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the pitch. UD Almería 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.”
After a disastrous 2023-24 La Liga season with just 21 points in 38 games played, Almeria was relegated to the Segunda division. Since then, the club has shown real potential for growth. The club finished 6th in its first season in LaLiga 2. And in the 2025-26 season, they are currently 3rd in the table with 48 points from 27 games.
El Bicho spent 9 years with Los Blancos in Spain from 2009 to 2018 before his move to Serie A giants Juventus. During his time with Real Madrid, Ronaldo helped the club win 2 La Ligas and four UEFA Champions League titles.
Now with Ronaldo involved at the club following his game-changing move, his experience and guidance could help the second-division side reach new heights and potentially earn a return to Spain’s top flight.
Almeria President Makes Feelings Clear After Cristiano Ronaldo Acquires Club's 25% Stakes
After Ronaldo's historic move, Almeria Owner and President, Mohammed Al Khereiji, expressed his feelings. Khereiji has welcomed the former Manchester United star on board and is excited to see how his involvement impacts the club.
Khereiji said, "He is considered the best on the pitch. 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 youth academy."
The financial details of this deal are not disclosed at this time. However, the official statements have named this a strategic investment. The 5-time Ballon d'Or winner's goal is to work together with the board as Almeria moves into the new phase.