Cristiano Ronaldo has hired a new security chief and dismissed his previous team after receiving alarming threats on social media.
The football superstar, who lives in Saudi Arabia with his partner Georgina Rodriguez and five children, has appointed Claudio Miguel Vaz to lead his security detail.
The decision comes amid growing concerns for the family's safety in Riyadh, where they have lived since Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023.
The threats reportedly prompted police intervention, according to Malaysian newspaper NST.
Cristiano Ronaldo has hired a new security firm amid threats to his family
Despite initially enjoying a quiet life in Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese icon and his family have been left on edge by distressing messages sent to them online.
The threats were serious enough to prompt Ronaldo to take decisive action regarding his security arrangements.
According to NST, the couple had previously been able to enjoy walks and outings with their children in Riyadh.
The alarming social media messages have disrupted this peaceful existence, forcing the family to reconsider their security needs.
Vaz, who has amassed over 12,000 followers on Instagram, specialises in private security and has experience working in problematic neighbourhoods.
He received parliamentary training and first built his reputation protecting music artists in troubled areas of Portugal, including rapper NGA.
JUST IN: Fencer Stephanie Turner awarded huge payday after taking a knee against transgender opponent
The security expert later moved into football, working with Portuguese internationals Rafael Leao and Gelson Martins.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Vaz's appointment represents a significant shift in Ronaldo's security approach.
Marca reports that Ronaldo's decision to hire Vaz has not been well received by many in his inner circle.
There are concerns over the bodyguard's "intimidating and aggressive" style, which differs significantly from Ronaldo's previous security team.
READ MORE: Celebre D'Allen dies after collapsing during Grand National as jockey receives punishment
Cristiano Ronaldo's partner Georgina Rodriguez is eager to drastically limit her children's exposure on social media
Those close to the Al-Nassr forward reportedly fear that Vaz's approach does not match his image and lifestyle.
The bodyguard has already attracted criticism for his methods, particularly during Georgina's recent trip to Paris Fashion Week.
Vaz used a bright flashlight to stun photographers as Georgina exited her vehicle, sparking outrage on social media.
Georgina Rodriguez is reportedly eager to drastically limit her children's exposure on social media as part of the family's security strategy.
Claudio Miguel Vaz has courted controversy in the past for his 'aggressive' stance
The couple had previously shared glimpses of their family life on Instagram.
However, this decision is now believed to be part of a wider plan to prevent their children from being targeted by the worrying threats.
Sources close to NST allege that what initially appeared to be a personal choice is actually a security measure.
The family continues to adjust their lifestyle in response to the concerning situation.
