It looks like Al Nassr are ready to turn things around. Having just parted ways with head coach Luis Castro, the Knights of the Najd have found a bright spot with the arrival of Stefano Pioli. The former AC Milan head coach faces his first challenge against Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq tonight. However, aside from Pioli’s debut, concerns remain as to whether Cristiano Ronaldo will travel with the team ahead of the debut of his new coach.

The Portuguese superstar missed the last game after diagnosis with a viral infection. Before the match against Al Ahli Saudi, Al Nassr released a statement about his absence, saying that the 39-year-old needed plenty of rest to recover from his ailment. Therefore, instead of travelling with the team, he stayed at home to watch his teammates play in the 1-1 draw against Al Ahli Saudi.

Above all, Recent reports revealed that after Luis Castro’s dismissal, the players were informed upon their arrival that the training session had been cancelled. had the opportunity either stay and train or go home, only two players decided to stay – Ronaldo and Aymeric Laporte. He was also present at a brief meeting of the team under new coach Pioli.

The captain’s return to training also suggests that his health has improved significantly. Ergo, fans can expect Cristiano Ronaldo to play tonight against Al Ettifaq. However, it is unlikely that he will be in the starting eleven. Of course, if the Manchester United icon recovers in time and is ready, Then we will see him in action.

What To What do you expect from Stefano Pioli as coach of Cristiano Ronaldo and co.?

Al Nassr is undoubtedly getting a coach with an impressive track record. Stefano Pioli has coached over 15 Italian clubs, including Parma, Sassuolo, Lazio, Inter and Fiorentina. His most recent stint was at AC Milan, where he led the Rossoneri to the Serie A title in the 2021/22 season. Pioli will no doubt be looking to achieve the success that Ronaldo and his teammates have been so eagerly awaiting. Of course, he should, considering the hopes people have in him.

Since Since Cristiano Ronaldo came into the picture, Al Nassr have had only moderate success, with the Arab Club Champions Cup being their only significant triumph. In the last two seasons, they missed out on other major trophies, including the Saudi Pro League, Saudi Super Cup and AFC Champions League. Pioli’s biggest challenge will undoubtedly be to win at least one trophy.

In addition, the players will have to adapt quickly to the style of their new manager. Fortunately, the season has just started, so they have plenty of time to set their goals for the 2024/25 season. Currently, Al Nassr is in 7th place with just 5 points, having drawn twice 1-1 against Al Ahli Saudi and Al Raed and having a 4-1 win against Al Feiha.

Hopefully they will find balance and consistency as the season progresses. Otherwise, a change of coach will not have a major impact. In the meantime, let’s see how is the result of today’s game.