Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Al Nassr, the Saudi Arabian football club, has announced the sudden departure of its Portuguese coach, Luis Castro, just a day after the team’s underwhelming 1-1 draw against Iraq’s Al Shorta in the AFC Champions League Elite campaign.
The decision comes on the heels of a sluggish start to the domestic season, with Al Nassr struggling to find their footing. The team has drawn twice in three matches, compounding concerns about their chances of winning the Saudi Pro League title.
Castro’s Departure Marks Third Coaching Change Since Ronaldo’s Arrival
Castro, 63, is the third coach to leave Al Nassr since Cristiano Ronaldo’s high-profile arrival in January 2023. The Portuguese superstar, 39, joined the club on a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract reportedly worth 400 million euros.
Ronaldo’s arrival sparked a wave of high-profile signings by Saudi clubs, including Neymar and Karim Benzema. However, Al Nassr’s performances have failed to match the hype, with the team finishing a distant second in the last Saudi Pro League season.
Ronaldo Still Searching for Saudi Silverware
Despite his impressive individual credentials, Ronaldo is yet to win a Saudi trophy with Al Nassr. His sole silverware with the club remains the Arab Club Champions Cup, secured last year.
Al Nassr’s Statement
“Al Nassr can announce that head coach Luis Castro has left the club,” read a statement posted on X. “Everyone at Al Nassr would like to thank Luis and his staff for their dedicated work during the past 14 months, wishing them the best of luck for the future.”
Uncertainty Surrounds Ronaldo’s Future
With Castro’s departure, speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s future at Al Nassr is likely to intensify. The Portuguese superstar’s contract is set to expire next summer, leaving many wondering if he will extend his stay in Saudi Arabia.
As Al Nassr searches for a new coach, the pressure is on to turn the team’s fortunes around and deliver the success that Ronaldo’s arrival promised.
Key Facts:
– Luis Castro leaves Al Nassr after 14 months as coach
– Third coaching change since Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in January 2023
– Al Nassr struggling in domestic season with two draws in three matches
– Ronaldo yet to win a Saudi trophy with Al Nassr
– Contract set to expire next summer
