From Chukwueze to Cristiano Ronaldo: Former Milan boss Pioli set for Al Nassr adventure

Stefano Pioli saying goodye to Samuel Chukwueze | Imago

From Chukwueze to Cristiano Ronaldo: Former Milan boss Pioli set for Al Nassr adventure

Ayoola Kelechi 20:35 - 17.09.2024

Stefano Pioli is set to join Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr after leaving AC Milan this summer

Former AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli is on the verge of taking over at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he will get to work with global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

Castro's departure leaves room for Pioli

Luis Castro’s tenure at Al Nassr came to an abrupt end just three games into the new season after a club statement confirmed his departure, thanking him for his efforts during his 14-month stint in charge.

Ex-Al Nassr manager Luis Castro | Flashscore
Ex-Al Nassr manager Luis Castro | Flashscore Ex-Al Nassr manager Luis Castro | Flashscore

Castro led Al Nassr to a second-place finish last season, behind rivals Al-Hilal, despite Ronaldo's incredible tally of 35 goals last season.

However, a disappointing start to the current campaign, including a 4-1 loss in the Saudi Super Cup and two 1-1 draws against mid-table teams, forced the club to seek new leadership.

Ronaldo given GOAT jersey by Al Nassr || X

Al Nassr have now turned to Stefano Pioli, the Italian tactician who left AC Milan at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Pioli set for Saudi Arabian adventure

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Pioli has accepted the offer and is ready to embark on his Saudi adventure.

Stefano Pioli is no stranger to big challenges. At AC Milan, he revived the club’s fortunes, transforming them from a struggling giant to Serie A champions, famously guiding Milan to their first Serie A title in 11 years in 2022.

AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli speaking ahead of Champions League clash with Napoli
Former AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli speaking ahead of Champions League clash with Napoli

Al Nassr is hoping that Pioli can work similar miracles and steer the team to the Saudi Pro League title, a feat that eluded Castro last season.