​Why US investors and Cristiano Ronaldo are turning their attention to Saudi Football clubs

American investment firm RedBird Capital is exploring a deal to purchase a 70% stake in Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly lined up to take a further 20% ownership, according to Football365.​

The potential transaction highlights a growing trend of US private equity targeting Saudi football. Unlike clubs in the English Premier League or top European leagues—which often trade at valuations exceeding five times their revenue—Saudi sides offer significant value, trading at much lower revenue multipliers.​

While the Saudi state continues building the country’s football infrastructure ahead of the 2034 World Cup, state spending has begun to cool. Analysts suggest that private investors are stepping in to buy clubs cheaply, banking on the long-term growth and global reach of Saudi football.