Report: Former Neymar coach set to join Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr

Al Nassr’s top priority heading into a new Saudi Pro League season was clear: secure Cristiano Ronaldo for at least one more year. With the contract extension now finalized, the next step was appointing a new head coach following Stefano Pioli’s departure — and all signs now point to a former Al Hilal manager, who previously coached Neymar.

According to recent reports, the man who is all but confirmed to take over the team — with strong approval from the Portuguese star himself — is Jorge Jesus, a highly experienced coach with a long track record in football, including a previous stint in the Saudi league.

Fabrizio Romano, through his official account on X (formerly Twitter), was the one to break the news about this intriguing move ahead of the upcoming season.

“Jorge Jesus has agreed to become new Al Nassr head coach. Former Al Hilal manager will be unveiled soon as deal has been agreed for Jesus to become Al Nassr coach, as per @Santi_J_FM. Cristiano Ronaldo also approved him as coach,” he reported via @FabrizioRomano.

Jorge Jesus Coach of Al Hilal looks on during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Hilal and Al Ahli SFC at Kingdom Arena on February 28, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The extensive experience of Jorge Jesus

Cristiano Ronaldo has been in the Saudi league for some time now, but the domestic title has continued to elude him with Al Nassr. The arrival of Jorge Jesus brings new hope to the team, as the experienced coach knows what it takes to win in Saudi Arabia.

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During his time at Al Hilal — which included two separate stints — the Portuguese coach claimed five trophies: the Saudi Pro League once (2023–24), the King’s Cup once (2023–24), and the Saudi Super Cup three times (2018–19, 2023–24, 2024–25).

Will CR7 and his teammates finally be able to lift the trophy under their new manager next season?

Ronaldo here to stay

While many began to speculate about what would happen once the season ended at Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo has finally made a decision about his future — he will continue in Saudi Arabia.

After sealing a lucrative two-year deal with his club’s management, CR7 feels more motivated than ever and aims to finally claim the domestic league title this season.