Cristiano Ronaldo has already spoken about what he would do if he owned Manchester United, amid fresh rumours of a potential Saudi Arabian takeover.
Turki Alalshikh Sparks Manchester United Ownership Speculation with Cryptic Post
Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and the driving force behind bringing major boxing events to the Kingdom as part of Riyadh Season, is once again at the center of global sporting headlines.
Best known for transforming Saudi Arabia into a hub for high-profile sporting spectacles, Alalshikh now appears to be expanding his influence — this time into the world of football investment.
In recent weeks, rumours had linked him with a potential move to purchase Bristol City, though Alalshikh quickly dismissed those reports. However, his latest comments on social media have reignited speculation about his ambitions in the football world.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Alalshikh wrote:
“The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor — I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”
While the post does not confirm any direct involvement, fans immediately began to speculate about potential Saudi Arabian interest in Manchester United. Given the country’s growing presence in global sports and Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence in the region, some supporters even suggested that the Portuguese superstar could be linked to any future Saudi-backed bid.
Ronaldo — who recently became football’s first billionaire — certainly possesses the financial clout to participate in such a venture. The Al Nassr forward maintains strong ties to both Manchester United and Saudi Arabia, fueling theories that he could play an ambassadorial or investment role if a takeover were to materialize.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner enjoyed two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals across all competitions. However, his departure in 2022 followed a highly publicized fallout after a controversial interview with Piers Morgan. Ronaldo later criticized United’s leadership again in 2024, shortly after Rúben Amorim took over as head coach.
At this stage, Alalshikh’s comments remain speculative, and no official confirmation has been made regarding any negotiations for Manchester United’s sale. Nevertheless, his post has reignited the debate over the club’s long-term ownership — and whether Saudi investment could eventually find its way to Old Trafford.
Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Future Club Ownership Amid Fresh Manchester United Criticism
At the Globe Soccer Awards in the United Arab Emirates, Cristiano Ronaldo reignited debate about Manchester United’s ongoing struggles, suggesting that the club’s problems extend far beyond its coaching staff — and hinting once again at a possible future in club ownership.
Ronaldo, now 40, was characteristically candid as he reflected on United’s persistent issues since his departure, using a vivid metaphor to describe what he believes is a deep-rooted problem within the club.
“I said this one and a half years ago, and I will continue to say it,” he began. “The problem is not the coaches. It’s like an aquarium — if you have a fish that is sick and you take it out to fix the problem, then put it back in the same aquarium, it will get sick again.
The problem of Manchester United is the same. It’s not always the coach — it’s much more than that.”
The Portuguese star, who enjoyed two spells at Old Trafford and won multiple trophies with the Red Devils, didn’t shy away from implying that mismanagement behind the scenes remains a major factor in United’s decline.
Ronaldo added:
“If I were the owner of the club, I would make things clear and adjust what I think is wrong there.”
The remark has fueled speculation that club ownership is something Ronaldo is seriously considering as he approaches the final years of his career.
Although he has often spoken about his desire to play into his 40s, the Al Nassr forward revealed that his post-playing ambitions lie away from the touchline.
“I’m not a coach. I’m never going to be a coach,” he said. “President of the club? No. Maybe owner of the club.”
While Ronaldo has previously distanced himself from coaching or administrative roles, this latest statement suggests he could pursue a more entrepreneurial path after retirement — perhaps even involving one of his former clubs.
Given his global brand, financial power, and deep connection to the game, Ronaldo entering football ownership could mark the start of an entirely new chapter in his illustrious career.
