Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract extension with Al-Nassr until 2027 was more than a headline-grabber. Valued at a record-breaking US$572 million and paired with a 15% ownership stake, the deal signalled a new era for the Saudi Pro League and global football. But beyond the numbers, it triggered a complex media conversation about value, ambition, national strategy, and legacy.
At CARMA, we closely monitored the media pulse surrounding the announcement between June 24 and July 7, 2025, capturing insights from over 23,000 online articles and nearly 400,000 social media posts. The story was never just about sport; it was about global perception, financial weight, and strategic messaging.
Our report dissects how online and social media framed Ronaldo’s deal:
- Financial power vs. player legacy
- MENA optimism vs. Western scepticism
- Soft power positioning vs. ROI concerns
Across platforms, Ronaldo was cast as both a transformational figure and a high-cost asset. In KSA, the coverage aligned with Vision 2030, praising the deal as a bold signal of global ambition. Meanwhile, Western media focused on the league’s credibility and return on investment after a trophyless season.
Download the full report and discover what the headlines didn’t tell you.
