Brazilian footballing legend Ronaldo Nazario is calling time on his ventures into club ownership.
The iconic former striker, who retired in 2011, used his business acumen and wealth to purchase Spanish outfit Real Valladolid in 2018 and then his first-ever side Cruzeiro in 2021.
He is now leaving the latter Brazilian outfit, though, announcing that the majority of his 51% shares will be sold to Pedro Lourenço, owner of the BH Supermarket chain.
Speaking upon his departure, he said: “I am hit by a mix of feelings, but mainly that of a duty fulfilled.
“It is inevitable to remember that two years and four months ago, I irresponsibly took on the challenge of buying Cruzeiro.
“I faced great challenges and in the majority they were successful. I can say that I handed over the Cruzeiro to Pedrinho with a feeling of tranquillity and duty fulfilled, given that the situation was very precarious when I arrived.”
Cruzeiro returned to the Brazilian first tier under Ronaldo’s ownership, and Spanish side Real Valladolid are set to do the same this summer.
However, they have twice been relegated under his presidency, and fans have regularly clashed with the former Real Madrid and Barcelona icon, particularly over changing the club’s crest.
“Valladolid will be next,” he remarked when asked about selling his other side.
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