Al Nassr sack coach Luis Castro, Ronaldo’s close in talks

It’s official now! Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr have sacked their head coach Luis Castro after 14 months of service. The club formally announced about parting ways with the 63-year-old through their social media accounts. The Saudi Arabia-based side has thanked the tactician and his staff for their “dedicated work”.

The sacking comes after a series of poor results. Since his induction, the side failed to clinch any trophies. They ended in spot two, way behind the invincible Al Ahli side. They also had to bid adieu to the Super Cup and King Cup in the semi-final and final respectively.

Things became worse at the start of this season, as Al Nassr are in seventh place in the league at present with just one win in three games. The club management’s patience seems to have broken following a 1-1 draw in the AFC Champions League Elite opening game against Al Shorta.

How has Luis Castro fared as Al Nassr’s manager?

Luis Castro’s 14-month stint at Al Nassr has been one with below-par results, considering the club’s legacy and enormous squad. Since his arrival on July 6, 2023, the club has played in 54 games with him at the helm. 

In those 54 games, he hails 2.17 points per game, with 36 wins, 9 draws, and 9 defeats. The club has failed to secure a single trophy under his guidance.

Who will be the next coach of Al Nassr?

As per multiple reports, Al Nassr is trying to secure a top coach to replace sacked Luis Castro. As per journalist Fabrizio Romano, 58-year-old Italian genius tactician Stefano Pioli is in discussions with Al Nassr to take the responsibility. The manager last coached Serie A club AC Milan. Reports also suggest that he is close to the club’s biggest star Cristiano Ronaldo.

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