‘He gives us directions’ - Cristiano Ronaldo's huge influence at Al-Nassr revealed by club chief after Saudi Pro League side fire manager Luis Castro and appoint Stefano Pioli

While Ronaldo’s impact is well-known on the field, his influence seems to stretch beyond goalscoring. Al-Nassr’s decision to replace Castro with Pioli came after a rocky beginning to the 2024 Saudi Pro League season where they were held twice in the three games. Although Ronaldo may not have directly influenced the managerial change, his presence looms large at the club, and his leadership qualities have been embraced by those at the helm of Al-Nassr.

"Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't control the club, but obviously, as the number one in the world, he gives us directions on the path we should follow and what goals we have to achieve," Al Nassr CEO Guido Fienga told Asharq Sports.

"He's a winner. We ask him to teach us how to win and this year we want to win with him and achieve the biggest goals possible. Cristiano is part of the team and we are very happy to be able to count on him."

While the decision to part ways with Castro may have seemed inevitable given the results, Fienga was quick to clarify that this was not a reactionary move.

"I don't think there has been a delay. We must manage the club in a balanced way, avoiding overly peremptory actions, otherwise, we could create problems instead of solving them," the Italian said.

"The decision to change coach is always difficult, but we went ahead because we believe that it is the right decision now. Hierro and his team proposed Pioli because of his ability to teach, improve and build a team, as well as to help players develop. Now we need to align the development of some young Saudi players with that of the international players we have. The technical department believes that Pioli is the best on the market at the moment."

Pioli was shown the door by Milan after a trophyless season in 2023/24. He was linked with a move to Al-Ittihad but talks fell through and the manager ultimately landed at Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo and Al-Nassr will aim to recover from their early-season setbacks and push for greater success with Pioli in charge. They will return to action against Al-Ettifaq on Friday evening in a Saudi Pro League fixture.