Jorge Jesus Set to Take Charge at Al Nassr, Backed by Ronaldo

Al Nassr have reached an agreement with Jorge Jesus to become their new head coach. Jesus’s appointment comes with the strong approval of Cristiano Ronaldo, as the Saudi club aims for a return to its past glory.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Jesus, who has had success in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere in the past, has agreed a deal with Al Nassr. He has signed a one-year deal, with the option of extending it by another season, that is worth €7 million per year.

The Saudi club will soon unveil the Portuguese tactician as their new coach. Ronaldo supposedly played a key role in endorsing him for the role as their visions aligned. Jesus replaces Stefano Pioli, who recently left Al Nassr and was confirmed as Fiorentina’s new head coach. Jesus will look to help Al Nassr regain the league title after the club finished second in the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League, just behind Al Hilal.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Jesus is no stranger to Saudi football, as he set a new record during his last spell at Al Hilal by winning 34 consecutive matches. His arrival in Riyadh is seen as important for Al Nassr in the upcoming season after they finished the last season without a silverware, including an early departure from the AFC Champions League.

Ronaldo continues to enjoy life in Saudi Arabia, as he recently signed a contract extension through 2027 after scoring over 44 goals in all competitions in the past campaign. Jesus is expected to play a key role in Ronaldo’s journey to reach 1000 career goals, as he has already completed 90% of the task.

WHAT NEXT FOR AL NASSR?

Jesus will get down to business straightaway to prepare Al Nassr’s squad for the new season as they aim to get back to the top. Their next competitive clash is against Al Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup after Simone Inzaghi’s side finished the league campaign unbeaten last time out.

The Portuguese tactician has a task in hand to strengthen his squad to compete against Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, who are all strengthening their squads. Jesus faces a tough challenge to steer Al Nassr to conquer the league title and deliver the club’s first league title since 2019. He has a talented squad at his disposal as he also looks to guide Ronaldo towards his goal record.