Stefano Pioli, the manager of Al Nassr, is reportedly on the verge of leaving the Saudi Arabian club due to a strained relationship with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Reliable sources indicate that the tension between Pioli and Ronaldo is escalating, casting doubt on the Italian manager’s future with the club.
Al Nassr’s failure to win the Saudi Arabian league, trailing behind Al-Ittihad by a significant 10-point margin, is contributing to the issue. But more crucially, the relationship between Pioli and Ronaldo has deteriorated sharply. The rift reportedly stems from Pioli’s decision to substitute Ronaldo during a match against Al Kholood on March 15th, when Al Nassr was leading 3-0. Ronaldo was taken off in the 61st minute, and reportedly reacted angrily by leaving the pitch without shaking Pioli’s hand. Saudi Arabian media reports claim the two even exchanged heated words, further exacerbating the situation.
(Pioli potentially leaving Al Nassr due to Ronaldo conflict – Image 1)
This incident isn’t the first time Pioli and Ronaldo have clashed. Recently, Pioli isn’t the only manager who’s had difficulties with Ronaldo. Rudi Garcia, Dinko Jelicic, and Luis Castro have also departed Al Nassr after failing to meet the Portuguese star’s expectations. Rudi Garcia, in particular, publicly criticized Ronaldo following a below-par performance.
Despite Al Nassr’s substantial investment in Ronaldo, paying him a reported €200 million per year, the club has yet to secure any trophies since his arrival. The constant managerial turnover is potentially a significant setback for the team.
(Pioli potentially leaving Al Nassr due to Ronaldo conflict – Image 2)
Pioli’s departure, should it occur, would be a significant blow to Al Nassr. The question now arises: can Al Nassr find a manager capable of handling Ronaldo’s immense influence and leading the team effectively? The future of both Pioli and Al Nassr remains shrouded in uncertainty.
