Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in December 2022 was one of the most significant transfers in football history, not only because of his immense talent but also due to the eye-watering salary he was offered. The deal made Ronaldo the highest-paid footballer in the world, showcasing the massive financial backing behind his move to Saudi Arabia.
Here’s a breakdown of Cristiano Ronaldo’s salary at Al Nassr and how much he earns.
Total Annual Salary
Ronaldo’s reported annual salary at Al Nassr is €90 million ($95 million). This makes him the highest-paid footballer globally, surpassing even the biggest names in football, including Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.
However, it’s important to note that this figure doesn’t just cover his basic salary but includes various other components of his contract that significantly raise its total value.
What’s Included in Ronaldo’s Salary?
The €90 million reported salary is primarily composed of the following components:
- Base Salary:
- Ronaldo’s base salary from Al Nassr is around €60 million ($64 million) annually. This is a fixed amount he receives for playing football in the Saudi Pro League.
- Commercial and Image Rights:
- A substantial portion of Ronaldo’s salary comes from commercial deals and image rights. His global fame and branding power give him opportunities for endorsements, sponsorships, and various marketing activities that contribute to his overall compensation.
- Reports suggest that these endorsements and image rights make up the remaining portion of his income, which boosts his total salary to an estimated €90 million. These income streams are often as significant as his on-field wages, especially given Ronaldo’s influence on social media and global reach.
- Other Perks and Bonuses:
- Apart from his fixed salary and commercial deals, Ronaldo is believed to have additional bonuses linked to his performance, the club’s achievements, and his influence on promoting Saudi Arabia’s football vision. This could include performance-based incentives like winning the league or playing in high-profile tournaments.
How Does Ronaldo’s Salary Compare to Other Footballers?
Ronaldo’s salary at Al Nassr is one of the highest in the world. To put it into perspective:
- Lionel Messi, who moved to Inter Miami in the United States in 2023, reportedly earns around $60 million per year, though his income is boosted with endorsements and commercial partnerships.
- Kylian Mbappé, who is considered one of the highest-paid footballers in Europe, earns approximately $100 million per year from his PSG contract and sponsorship deals.
Despite Mbappé’s salary being higher than Ronaldo’s base salary at Al Nassr, Ronaldo’s combined compensation from his contract and commercial activities is significantly higher, making him the highest-paid player globally.
Why Such a Lucrative Deal?
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr was not just a football decision; it was a business one as well. Here are a few reasons why Al Nassr offered him such a lucrative deal:
- Global Appeal:
- Ronaldo is a global superstar, and his signing significantly raised the profile of the Saudi Pro League. The financial reward was not only for his on-field skills but also for the commercial value he brings to the club and the country.
- Saudi Arabia’s Football Ambitions:
- The move is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to increase the country’s football stature on the global stage. The government and Al Nassr wanted a big-name player to help raise the league’s profile and attract more international attention.
- Legacy and Marketability:
- Ronaldo’s marketability is unmatched in the football world. With his presence in Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr can sign lucrative sponsorships and secure valuable partnerships, which benefit both the club and Ronaldo.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s salary at Al Nassr is €90 million ($95 million) per year, making him the highest-paid footballer in the world. The bulk of this salary comes from his base salary, with the rest being generated through image rights and commercial deals. Ronaldo’s deal is a testament to his unmatched global appeal and the ambition of Saudi football to elevate its status on the world stage.
