CRISTIANO RONALDO has been making history on the pitch and now he is looking to make his mark in the boardroom after sensationally becoming a co-owner of UD Almeria.
The Portuguese superstar, 41, has bought a 25 per cent stake in the Spanish second tier side through his CR7 Sports Investments company.
And Ronaldo, who recently committed his future to Saudi Pro League title-chasers Al-Nassr after a two-match strike, is excited by his fresh challenge.
The Manchester United legend released a statement, which read: “It has been a longtime ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch.
“UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.
“I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the club’s next phase of growth.”
The fee paid by Ronaldo has not been disclosed, but his involvement comes a year after Almeria were taken over by a Saudi investment group.
And he has a strong bond with Mohamed Al Khereiji, who spearheaded the takeover and reportedly played a key role in the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s move to Al-Nassr.
The Almeria club president said: “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in.
“He is regarded as the greatest to ever play the game, he knows the Spanish leagues very well and he understands the potential of what we are building here both in terms of the team and the academy.”
Almeria are battling for a spot in LaLiga and are just two points adrift of Segunda Division leaders Racing Santander.
Their first showdown since Ronaldo got on board will be away to Albacete on Friday.
And it marks their new co-owner’s return to Spanish football after previously enjoying a trophy-laden spell with Real Madrid.
Ronaldo made seven appearances against Almeria while he was at the Bernabeu – notching seven goals and five assists.
In another clear sign that he is edging towards retirement, the ex-Juventus talisman is ready to expand his hotel and bar business to the UK.
But Ronaldo has found the back of the net 22 times for Al-Nassr this season and is preparing to represent Portugal at the World Cup.