Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, has hinted that Cristiano Ronaldo’s signing was Government-backed.
The Portuguese star has signed for Al-Nassr after his acrimonious exit from Manchester United. A lack of options in Europe has seen the five-time Ballon d’Or winner head for the Middle East, where he will earn huge sums on a contract than runs until 2025.
It is the latest major move from Saudi Arabia as their involvement and visibility in all sports continues to grow. The kingdom has huge wealth and has flexed its muscles in the golfing world, Formula 1 and has plans to host the 2030 World Cup should their bid be successful
READ ALSO: It’s Official!!! Ronaldo Joins Saudi Club Al Nassr
Having headline names like Ronaldo ply their trade in Saudi Arabia will only further their appeal and their sports minister has suggested more major deals are to come.
He said on social media: “Happy with the presence of one of the best players in the world to start his new career in Saudi Arabia. Welcome @Cristiano to the kingdom and we will support the rest of our clubs for qualitative deals with international stars soon.”
Ronaldo’s debut with Al-Nassr could come next week. He’s not been seen on the pitch since Portugal’s shock exit from the World Cup at the hands of Morocco. The forward had offers to join Saudi Arabia last summer, but has now made the switch, citing the want to experience a new challenge.
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