Ronaldo called it a strategic move reflecting his long-term commitment to football ownership, adding that Almeria has strong foundations and growth potential. The club, owned by Saudi group SMC, currently sit third in Spain’s second division, one point off the automatic promotion spots.

Almeria president Mohamed Al Khereiji said Ronaldo is expected to support the club’s youth development. The 41-year-old, who plays for Al Nassr and was recently named in Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index, is also set to feature in what could be his final World Cup next summer.