Former AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli is reportedly being considered for the managerial position at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, home to football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. This news comes after Pioli’s previous negotiations with another Saudi club, Al-Ittihad, fell through.
According to reports from Calciomercato, Al-Nassr’s current Portuguese manager Luis Castro is facing potential dismissal, with his position becoming increasingly precarious. The club’s next league match against Al-Ahli on Friday could prove decisive for Castro’s future.
Falahsport suggests that Pioli is the preferred candidate to replace Castro, edging out fellow contender Sergio Conceiçao. This development is particularly intriguing given that Pioli is still under contract with AC Milan until June 2025.
Al-Nassr has had a mixed start to their season, collecting 4 points from their first two matches. They drew 1-1 at home against Al-Raed in their opener, followed by a convincing 4-1 away victory over Al-Feiha, with goals from Talisca (2), Brozovic, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Saudi club boasts an impressive roster including not only Ronaldo but also players like Laporte, Otavio, and Sadio Mané. Their recent transfer activity has been significant, with the acquisition of French defender Simakan from RB Leipzig for €35 million, after failing to secure former Inter Milan defender Skriniar.
Al-Nassr has also strengthened their squad with Brazilian talents, signing goalkeeper Bento from Athletico Paranaense for €18 million, and wingers Angelo Gabriel from Chelsea and Wesley Gassova from Corinthians for €23 million and €18 million respectively.
If the move materializes, it would mark Pioli’s first venture into managing outside of Italy and potentially pair him with one of the greatest players in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo.
