Huge Blow to Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr as Luis Castro Set to Miss Al Akhdoud Clash Just Days After Undergoing Surgery

Despite the uphill battle, Al Nassr is determined to make a strong statement in their last matches this season. Trailing Al Hilal by nine points with an extra game played, the Saudi Pro League title may seem distant. Led by their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, the team leaves no stone unturned to win all their games, even in the face of numerous challenges. The recent surgery of their manager, Luis Castro, has left a void, but the team is rallying together to fill it, even in their upcoming match against Al Akhdoud, who are struggling at #15.

According to reports, after a positive start to May with their win against Al Wehda, Al Nassr will again miss the Portuguese boss in the away game at Najran. However, it’s not an illness; travel restrictions due to his recent issue will prevent Castro from attending the next fixture. The former Shakhtar Donetsk manager underwent a minor lung operation in mid-April after having respiratory problems.

With Luis Castro opting to stay for home games, the responsibility of managing the team during away fixtures falls on the capable shoulders of Vitor Severino, the club’s first assistant coach. Despite the absence of their main coach, the Knights of Najd are maintaining their focus and determination. The club was informed last month about Castro’s need for rest, and they have been preparing for this situation.

Subsequently, it released a statement saying, “Coach of the first team Mr. Luis Castro was advised by the doctor to refrain from physical activity for a few days following a minor medical procedure. Mr. Vitor Severino, the first assistant coach, will be in charge of the team until Mr. Castro comes back. Get well soon Mister.”  But the determined coach returned a few days before Al Nassr’s King’s Cup semifinal versus Al Khaleej.

Luis Castro prepares Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. to save his position as Al Nassr’s coach

With a few titles slipping through their fingers this season, Luis Castro and Cristiano Ronaldo are now focusing on the King’s Cup and the tight fixtures in May. After a brief absence, the coach has returned with a rigorous training session, preparing the team for the crucial matches ahead. This was followed by a stellar performance from CR7, who scored a hat trick against Al Wehda, leading the team to a 6-0 victory at home. The team’s next challenge is against Al Akhdoud on Thursday, followed by matches against Al Hilal and Al Ittihad in the final league game.

Castro is also under scrutiny, with the Riyadh club reportedly looking for a suitable replacement. They are targeting another Portuguese ace, Sérgio Conceição, who has exceptionally led Porto to multiple titles. Moreover, Al Nassr, which has been upgrading recently, has attracted former Real Madrid player Fernando Hierro as their new Sporting Director. With so much investment in talent, the club will be disappointed if they do not bring home more silverware. However, only time will reveal whether Castro can save his spot.