Cristiano Ronaldo facing fifth head coach at Al Nassr as Pioli exit looms

Instability marks Ronaldo’s Saudi chapter

Since joining Al Nassr in January 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has maintained exceptional individual form — scoring 97 goals in 108 matches — but team success has remained limited. The club has secured just one trophy during his time, and the current season appears headed for another disappointing finish.

Al Nassr are third in the Saudi Pro League and were eliminated in the AFC Champions League semi-finals. Following these results, the club’s leadership is reportedly considering a managerial change.

Pioli's position under review

According to Calciomercato, Stefano Pioli is expected to leave his role at the end of the season. Although he signed a contract running through 2027, Al Nassr are said to be evaluating the activation of a performance-based termination clause.

Fifth coaching change for Ronaldo

If Pioli departs, it will mark the fifth managerial shift of Ronaldo’s Al Nassr career. The Portuguese forward initially played under Rudi Garcia, followed by a series of short-lived coaching tenures that have underlined the club’s lack of long-term continuity on the touchline.

This instability may influence the final stages of Ronaldo’s time in Saudi Arabia. With no major silverware secured this season and his 41st birthday approaching, speculation around his future is once again gaining traction.