Cristiano Ronaldo has previously stated that he wants to own a major football club once he retires from professional football.
The Portuguese star celebrated his 40th birthday in February and still aims to play in the 2026 World Cup in the United States. In 2023, Ronaldo was the world’s top scorer—among top-tier leagues—netting goals for Al Nassr, and he continues to play for the Saudi club.
He has remained reserved about the exact moment he will retire from football, but a final World Cup—where he would be 41—could mark the end of his playing career.
Ronaldo has previously stated that he has no intention of getting into coaching or management, but now there is speculation that he might buy a football club after retirement.
Former Premier League midfielder Andy Townsend has suggested that Ronaldo is “very likely” to buy Wrexham and work alongside Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
“Cristiano Ronaldo could buy Wrexham and have Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as his chauffeurs if he wants,” Townsend said in an interview with BoyleSports.
“But what an incredible story. They have given hope to so many people who want to get into football, buy clubs, and be involved in the sport to show what’s possible. I wouldn’t be surprised if Cristiano Ronaldo buys a club after he stops playing. We’ve seen him invest in hotels and other businesses, and he has a strong interest in entrepreneurship.”
Townsend also believes that Ronaldo could return to English football to manage a club, following his two spells with Manchester United.
“I can imagine him buying a club in the Football League,” he added. “Because he loves football and I think he would back himself to run a club. I see it as a real possibility.”
Ronaldo has previously expressed his desire to own and run “several football clubs.” In an interview with Portuguese media outlet Canal 11, published in February 2025, he said:
“If I can be the owner of a club, why would I be a coach, sporting director, or CEO? This is a dream for me, and I am sure that one day I will be the owner of a club. In fact, I’ll tell you even more: I hope to have not just one, but multiple clubs.”
