Cristiano Ronaldo’s signing with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr marks a pivotal moment in the country’s sports ambitions, aiming to elevate its domestic league and attract global attention. His contract, worth approximately €200 million, reflects a strategic shift from merely owning foreign clubs to enhancing local talent. This move is part of a broader ambition for Saudi Arabia to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup and reshape its global image through sports.
The arrival of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia represents a significant milestone in the nation’s pursuit of prominence in international sports. Ronaldo, aged 37, received an enthusiastic welcome at Riyadh’s Mrsool Park, where he emphasized his intent to break records with his new club, mirroring the ambitious goals of his team’s management to develop a roster of top-tier talent reminiscent of Barcelona’s and Real Madrid’s successes.
His contract, worth approximately 200 million euros until June 2025, follows a contentious departure from Manchester United where he openly criticized team management. Ronaldo’s signing not only boosts Al Nassr but also aims to attract other high-profile players, including Croatian Luka Modric and Frenchman N’Golo Kanté, enhancing the competitive nature of the Saudi league.
Ronaldo’s presence symbolizes a broader strategy for Saudi Arabia to establish itself as a football powerhouse, marking a shift from merely acquiring foreign clubs to enhancing its domestic league through star talent. His global appeal as an influencer with 570 million Instagram followers can draw international attention to the Saudi league.
Saudi Arabia’s ambitions are not limited to football; they are also aligning with a broader campaign to elevate the nation’s international standing and image. The country has invested significantly in various sports, including acquiring the English club Newcastle United, while also displaying a strategy focused on enhancing football domestically.
With aspirations to host the 2030 World Cup, Saudi Arabia aims to leverage Ronaldo’s prominence as part of its campaign to secure FIFA’s approval, following a notable performance by its national team in the previous World Cup against Argentina. Political analysts note that while the competition for hosting rights exists, the region’s recent success could sway FIFA’s decision toward Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, Ronaldo’s arrival aligns with the Kingdom’s intent to reshape its global image amid past criticisms surrounding human rights issues. His signing is viewed as a strategic move for the royal family to foster national pride and consolidate power domestically while improving Saudi Arabia’s reputation internationally.
Original Source: www.france24.com
