Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Eyeing Serie A-Winning Manager to Replace Luis Castro Following Saudi League Disappointment

The common consensus is that Al Nassr’s season has been underwhelming. Despite boasting one of the best squads in the league, the Knights of Najd could go trophyless this season. It’s not a good look when you have superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane on the side. The arrival of Fernando Hierro as the sporting director signified plenty of changes ahead for the side. Major departures were expected and it seems manager Luis Castro is the first casualty!

As per reports on X, Al Nassr is eyeing Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi to replace Luis Castro. Having led Inter Miami to the Serie A this season, Inzaghi’s stocks are high. The coach also led Inter Milan to the UCL final last season, cementing himself among Europe’s elite. He knows well the qualities of Cristiano Ronaldo, having faced him as Lazio’s manager. His contract with Nerazzurri runs till June 2025. Hence, Inter Milan doesn’t have much bargaining power regarding a transfer fee.

However, it remains to be seen if Inzaghi will accept a move to the Saudi League. After all, his Inter Milan project is still far from finished. But it is certain that Al Nassr is keen to move on from Luis Castro. Previously, there were reports that the club wanted Massimiliano Allegri to lead Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. It seems the upper management is not impressed by Castro’s performance in the Saudi Pro League. Worryingly, Al Hilal is set to get even stronger next season as their star signing Neymar will return from injury.

Luis Castro had a great relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo. It is not a surprise that CR7 had one of his seasons under the Portuguese manager. Hence, how will Castro’s potential exit Ronaldo’s future at the club?

Al Nassr reportedly made a decision on Cristiano Ronaldo’s future

Cristiano Ronaldo’s current contract runs till summer 2025. The Portuguese superstar will turn 40 by then and it looks like the ideal time to end his Saudi chapter. However, the latest report is that Al Nassr is keen to award a 1-year extension to their captain. This would keep him at Al Nassr until 2026. The timeline of the new deal fits perfectly into CR7’s plans.

After the disappointment of Qatar 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo famously hinted that he could play in the upcoming World Cup 2026. Hence, the extension would help the soccer icon stay in rhythm and stay fit. Moreover, having Ronaldo at the club benefits Al Nassr as well. This season, the attacker has scored 42 goals and made 13 assists. He is also the Golden Boot winner in the league. Hence, Al Nassr will be able to count on Ronaldo’s gifts for one more year. A win-win for all parties involved!