Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Decision to Live in Saudi Arabia Permanently After Renewing His Contract

In statements that sparked wide reactions, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo announced his intention to settle and live in Saudi Arabia permanently, confirming that his sense of security and happiness in the Kingdom was among the main reasons for his decision to renew his contract with Al-Nassr Club until 2027.

Ronaldo, in a video posted by Al-Nassr Club on its official YouTube channel, said that his family feels very comfortable in Saudi Arabia, where they enjoy a beautiful life amidst the warm reception of Saudis towards them in a "very, very wonderful way," as he described it, confirming:

 "We want to live here and continue our lives in Saudi Arabia."

Just two days ago, Al-Nassr Club announced the renewal of the contract of their Portuguese captain to continue with the team beyond his 42nd birthday, after joining the club in a free transfer deal in 2022 following his departure from Manchester United.

Since joining, Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in all competitions with the team, but his greatest achievement was winning the King Salman Arab Clubs Championship, while he has not yet won a domestic or continental championship with "Al-Nassr."

The all-time leading scorer of Real Madrid pointed out that he turned down offers to participate in the expanded edition of the Club World Cup currently being held in the United States, preferring rest before the start of a long season that ends with the 2026 World Cup.

He explained:

 "I had offers to play, but I didn't consider them logical. I want to prepare well for the season with Al-Nassr and also with the Portugal national team. So, I focused on the UEFA Nations League final and didn't pay attention to any other offer."

Ronaldo already contributed to his country's national team winning the UEFA Nations League title this month, after defeating Spain in a penalty shootout, scoring a goal in the final.

He also affirmed that the Saudi Arabian League is now one of the top 5 leagues in the world, and the players participating in it are well aware of that, expecting the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia to be "the best in history."

Ronaldo concluded his speech with a message to those hesitant to visit the Kingdom:

"We are not trying to convince anyone. Those who come see the truth for themselves. I love the Red Sea, Riyadh, Jeddah... I love the culture here, and I feel peace."