Saudi Arabia's Minister of Sports, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, has hinted that Cristiano Ronaldo's signing was Government-backed.
The Portuguese star has signed for Al-Nassr after his acrimonious exit from Manchester United. A lack of options in Europe has seen the five-time Ballon d'Or winner head for the Middle East, where he will earn huge sums on a contract than runs until 2025.
It is the latest major move from Saudi Arabia as their involvement and visibility in all sports continues to grow. The kingdom has huge wealth and has flexed its muscles in the golfing world, Formula 1 and has plans to host the 2030 World Cup should their bid be successful.
Having headline names like Ronaldo ply their trade in Saudi Arabia will only further their appeal and their sports minister has suggested more major deals are to come.
He said on social media: "Happy with the presence of one of the best players in the world to start his new career in Saudi Arabia. Welcome @Cristiano to the kingdom and we will support the rest of our clubs for qualitative deals with international stars soon."
Ronaldo's debut with Al-Nassr could come next week. He's not been seen on the pitch since Portugal's shock exit from the World Cup at the hands of Morocco. The forward had offers to join Saudi Arabia last summer, but has now made the switch, citing the want to experience a new challenge.
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He told the club's website: "I’m thrilled for new experience in a different league and a different country, the vision that Al Nassr has is very inspiring. I am very excited to join my teammates, to help the team to achieve more success."
A statement from the club read: "This is more than history in the making. This is a signing that will not only inspire our club to achieve even greater success but inspire our league, our nation and future generations, boys and girls to be the best version of themselves. Welcome, Cristiano, to your new home."
The kingdom's Pro League could now target other major names as they look to further increase their appeal. The finances on offer is likely to attract players, especially those at the latter stages of their career, with Ronaldo joining the likes of Luiz Gustavo and Vincent Aboubakar.
