In Saudi Arabia, Al-Nassr has brought in Stefano Pioli as its new coach, replacing Luis Castro who was dismissed after a lackluster start to the season. Pioli, a former AC Milan manager, achieved success with the Italian club by winning the Serie A title in 2022 and guiding them to the Champions League semifinals in 2023. Despite his accomplishments, Pioli left Milan in May. Castro’s departure follows a string of changes in coaching positions at Al-Nassr, including the exit of Rudi Garcia in April 2023. The team finished second in the league under Castro’s leadership last season, losing out to Al-Hilal and facing defeat in two cup finals against the same rival.
Pioli, aged 58, has signed a three-year contract with Al-Nassr and is set to lead the team in his first coaching role outside of Italy. His debut match will be against Al-Ettifaq, managed by former Liverpool star Steven Gerrard, on Friday. This move marks another chapter in Cristiano Ronaldo’s career as he adjusts to working under a new coach at Al-Nassr.
This managerial change comes after Castro’s tenure ended with a 1-1 draw against Al-Shorta from Iraq in the Asian Champions League Elite tournament on Monday. The appointment of Pioli signifies Al-Nassr’s determination to achieve success and strengthen its position in the league. Fans and pundits will be watching closely to see how the team performs under its new coach in the upcoming matches.