Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi club Al Nassr recently announced the departure of their Portuguese coach Luis Castro following a disappointing draw in the AFC Champions League Elite campaign. The team’s slow start to the domestic season, compounded by Monday’s 1-1 stalemate with Al Shorta, led to the decision. Ronaldo, whose contract is set to expire next summer, has not yet won a Saudi trophy with the Riyadh club, with his only silverware coming from last year’s Arab Club Champions Cup. Al Nassr, finishing second in the Saudi Pro League last season, has drawn twice in three matches this season. Ronaldo’s arrival in early 2023 has seen a string of high-profile signings by Saudi clubs, including Neymar and Karim Benzema.
The announcement of Luis Castro’s departure as head coach of Al Nassr comes just a day after the team’s underwhelming performance in the AFC Champions League Elite campaign. The decision was made due to the slow start the team has had in the domestic season, with Ronaldo’s contract coming to an end next summer. Despite his groundbreaking arrival at the club, Ronaldo has yet to secure a Saudi trophy, with last year’s Arab Club Champions Cup being the only silverware so far. Al Nassr, which finished second in the previous Saudi Pro League season, has drawn twice in three matches in the new campaign. The departure of Castro marks the third coaching change at Al Nassr since Ronaldo’s arrival in early 2023.
In a statement posted by Al Nassr, the club thanked Luis Castro and his staff for their dedicated work over the past 14 months and wished them luck in their future endeavors. The 63-year-old coach was appointed to the club in July last year after the departure of previous coaches following Ronaldo’s arrival. The club aims to make improvements and seek better results under new coaching leadership. Ronaldo’s presence has attracted significant attention and interest in the Saudi football scene, with high-profile signings by various clubs, including Neymar and Karim Benzema, contributing to the growing competitiveness in the league. Despite the challenges faced, the club remains committed to achieving success in both domestic and international competitions.
Ronaldo’s impact on the Saudi football landscape has been significant, with his arrival sparking a surge of interest and investment in the sport. The Portuguese forward’s presence has brought attention to the league, attracting other top players to compete in the oil-rich kingdom. The departure of Luis Castro reflects the club’s commitment to success and improvement, as they seek to build a competitive team capable of winning trophies. With Ronaldo’s contract set to expire next summer, the club will be looking to make strategic decisions to ensure continued success in both domestic and international competitions. The departure of Castro marks another chapter in the club’s ongoing quest for excellence and achievement in the football world.
Despite the challenges faced by Al Nassr in the current season, the club remains determined to achieve success and establish itself as a dominant force in Saudi football. The recent coaching change signifies the club’s commitment to continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence. With Ronaldo leading the team on the field, there is optimism and excitement among fans and supporters for the future of Al Nassr. The club’s performances in both domestic and international competitions will be closely monitored as they aim to build on the momentum generated by the high-profile signings and Ronaldo’s presence. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Al Nassr as they strive to make their mark in the highly competitive football landscape of Saudi Arabia.
