Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia. ARCHIVE

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that he intends to make Saudi Arabia his permanent home, describing the kingdom as a place of “peace and safety” for him and his family. The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar made the statement after signing a contract extension with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, which will now see him playing with the team until 2027—beyond his 42nd birthday. “My family always supports my decisions, and we’re happy here in Saudi Arabia,” Ronaldo said in a video released by the club. “The people treat us in an incredibly warm way. That’s why we want to live here and build our lives here.” The icon said his commitment goes beyond football. "I will stay two more years as a football player, but also for life because my contribution to this country is not only for football... I want to be part of the country’s growth forever,” he said. Since joining Al Nassr in late 2022 following his departure from Manchester United, Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in all competitions and lifted the King Salman Club Cup. However, he remains determined to secure a major domestic or continental title. “I still believe in that goal,” he said. “That’s why I renewed for two more years. I believe I will be a champion in Saudi Arabia.” Ronaldo also revealed that he turned down offers to play in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup in the US to prioritize rest and preparation for the upcoming season and the 2026 World Cup. “It wasn’t a logical decision to take,” he said. “I want to be at my best, not only for Al Nassr but also for the Portuguese national team.” Earlier this month, Ronaldo helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League, scoring in the final against Spain and contributing to a penalty shootout win. He praised the Saudi Pro League, calling it “one of the top five leagues in the world,” and predicted that the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which Saudi Arabia is set to host, “will be the most beautiful in history.” When asked about Saudi Arabia’s image abroad, Ronaldo said, “We don’t need to prove anything to anyone... I love the culture. I’d just say: come and see it for yourself.” ICA/Expat Media
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