UD Almería has confirmed a significant change in its ownership structure with the announcement that Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has invested in the club. The investment, which accounts for 25% of the club’s shares, is made through his subsidiary CR7 Sports, as part of a consortium led by SMC Group. This move highlights Ronaldo’s growing portfolio in sports investments and his strategic approach to expansion in football.

The club’s statement emphasizes the importance of this acquisition, framing it as a crucial part of their strategic development under current leadership. By bringing in a high-profile investor like Ronaldo, UD Almería not only strengthens its financial backing but also benefits from Ronaldo's international brand appeal, which could lead to increased global visibility and potential new sponsorship opportunities.

Ronaldo's investment represents a shift toward a more complex ownership model in football, where star players leverage their fame and resources to become more involved in club management. It signifies an evolving trend in sports where elite athletes transition into roles as entrepreneurs, influencing both the dynamics of club ownership and the market within European football.