Cristiano Ronaldo’s next season at Al-Nassr looks set to begin with a new face in the dugout. And this one has been around the block — and the boot room.
Stefano Pioli, the current manager of the Saudi Pro League club, is reportedly preparing to leave for Fiorentina.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, “Stefano Pioli, set to leave Al Nassr and proceed with plan as new Fiorentina head coach. Decision made.”
🚨🟣 Stefano Pioli, set to leave Al Nassr and proceed with plan as new Fiorentina head coach. Decision made.
Edin Dzeko, one of the main targets for his new project at Fiorentina if all goes to plan. pic.twitter.com/05ujHYT5Zw
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 14, 2025
The Italian coach is expected to rejoin Serie A, leaving the Riyadh side hunting for a fresh voice to lead them forward.
With Pioli packing his bags, Al-Nassr has reportedly turned its attention to another Italian — Luciano Spalletti. Freshly sacked as Italy boss following a poor Euro 2024 campaign and a heavy defeat to Norway in World Cup qualifying, Spalletti is now a free agent.
And Al-Nassr are said to be lining up a big-money deal to tempt him.
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Spalletti in, Pioli out? Ronaldo watches closely
Spalletti, 66, made headlines in 2023 by leading Napoli to a historic Serie A title — their first since the days of Diego Maradona.
But his magic didn’t carry over to the national team, where Italy failed to make an impact under his leadership. Still, his club track record keeps him in demand.
Al-Nassr see Spalletti as a top candidate to replace Pioli. Reports from Italy (via Gazetta dello Sport) suggest the Saudi club are ready to offer him a salary that could match, or even beat, the €12 million per year Pioli was earning.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who has already confirmed he’ll stay at Al-Nassr next season, could now be working under a coach who once managed stars like Francesco Totti and Marek Hamsik.
Spalletti’s style might suit the Portuguese forward, who remains the focal point of Al-Nassr’s ambitions on and off the pitch.
Al-Nassr’s offer is expected soon. Whether Spalletti takes it or waits for another European job remains to be seen.
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