“Something I thought about a few years back” - When Cristiano Ronaldo expressed desire to follow ex-Manchester United star's path
Cristiano Ronaldo once confirmed that he wants to follow in the footsteps of Manchester United legend David Beckham and own a football club soon. The Portuguese admitted his plans at a press conference in Madrid last year.
Speaking at an event in Madrid in 2023 for his new business venture, Ronaldo stated that he will be ending his playing career in 2-3 years. Admitting that the next plan is to buy a football club, he said:
"I don't rule out becoming a club owner. It's something I thought about a few years back. I probably would like to own a [football] club. I'm at the end of my career, two to three years maximum."
Talking about his move to Saudi Arabia from Manchester United at the same event, Ronaldo stated that he was sure that footballers would follow him to the Middle East. He said:
"I knew that by me going to [Saudi] Arabia I would open the box. Karim [Benzema] has gone there but I'm sure many others will follow. In two or three years, it [Saudi Pro League] will be one of the most important in the world. May all the stars come to Arabia, there are no problems with the league. What we want is competition."
Former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to extend his contract at Al Nassr soon. The Portuguese star is keen on staying at the Saudi Pro League side and retire at the club.
Cristiano Ronaldo's rival could become co-owner with Manchester United legend
Cristiano Ronaldo's rival for the last decade, Lionel Messi, could join David Beckham as the co-owner at Inter Miami. The Sun reported earlier this year that the Argentine has a clause in his contract with the MLS club which would see him profit from the club after retirement.
The report stated:
"Lionel Messi could become a co-owner of Inter Miami alongside David Beckham - using a very familiar clause. Messi took his career to America last year after walking out on French champions PSG and snubbing a move to Saudi Arabia.
"The man who convinced the Argentine icon to head Stateside was majority owner of Inter Miami, Jorge Mas, who also appointed Beckham club president. And part of Messi's package was the option to take part ownership of the club without needing a buy-in exercised.
"Beckham had a similar clause when moved from Madrid to LA Galaxy in a high-profile transfer in 2007. Messi's option instead gives him direct ownership in just Miami," it continued.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are in the twilight of their career, while Manchester United legend David Beckham has won his first MLS Supporters' Shield as the Inter Miami owner this season.