Title: Sacked Al Nassr Coach Luis Castro Expresses Gratitude, Cristiano Ronaldo-Inspired Alex Telles Reveals Decision to Join Saudi Club

Story:

Luis Castro, the Portuguese manager who was recently sacked by Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, has expressed his gratitude to the team’s supporters and staff in an Instagram post. Castro managed Al Nassr for 54 games across competitions, winning 36, drawing nine, and losing nine, but failed to guide the team to a trophy.

The 54-year-old coach was appointed to the role last summer, and despite a decent league finish, he couldn’t help the team win any major silverware. The Saudi Pro League giants announced Stefano Pioli as their new manager earlier this week, and Castro thanked everyone who supported him and worked alongside him during his tenure.

Meanwhile, Al Nassr’s influence was evident in the decision-making process of Alex Telles, who joined the Saudi club from Manchester United last year. The left-back has now moved to Brazilian club Botafogo but revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo played a significant role in convincing him to join Al Nassr.

"He made it easier for me to go [to Al-Nassr], he called me beforehand and said, ‘come here, let’s enjoy it here, the country is opening up to football, more people are coming.’ An invitation from him, like that, there’s no way to refuse… It was easy," Telles said, referring to Ronaldo’s personal invitation.

Telles played 38 games for Al Nassr last season, scoring three goals and providing five assists. He has also made 21 appearances across competitions with Ronaldo at Manchester United.

Quote: "Now that I cease my functions as Al Nassr’s Head Coach, I want to thank everyone that supported me and worked every day by my side. I wish them great luck and success," Castro said in his farewell message.

Next game: Al Nassr’s new manager Stefano Pioli will take charge for the first time when they face Al Ettifaq away in the Saudi Pro League on Friday, September 20.

The departure of Castro and arrival of Pioli marks an important chapter in Al Nassr’s history, especially with the Saudi Pro League aiming to increase its international profile. The club will look to bounce back from a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season, which saw them lose in the Saudi Super Cup against Al Hilal.