Luis Castro makes first comments after Al Nassr sacking following poor run with Cristiano Ronaldo's side
Luis Castro has expressed his thoughts after being sacked by Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al Nassr this week. The Knights of Njad announced the departure of the Portuguese manager on Tuesday, September 17.
Castro was appointed Al Nassr's manager last summer and managed them for 54 games across competitions, winning 36, losing nine, and drawing nine. However, he couldn't help them win a trophy. They finished second in the Saudi Pro League last season behind Al Hilal and lost to them in the King Cup of Champions.
They were also eliminated from the AFC Champions League quarter-finals against Al-Ain. Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. didn't have a good start to the 2024-25 season either, losing in the Saudi Super Cup against Al Hilal. They also managed one win and two draws in three league games and a 1-1 draw against Al-Shorta in the AFC Champions League.
Hence, Castro was sacked earlier this week and he shared a message on his Instagram account, writing:
"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."
Al Nassr have announced Stefano Pioli as their new manager already. They will next be in action on Friday, September 20, against Al Ettifaq away in the Saudi Pro League.
Alex Telles shares how Cristiano Ronaldo influenced his decision to join Al Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr in January 2023 opened the Saudi Pro League to the world. The following summer saw many big stars join different clubs in the league like Karim Benzema, Neymar, and more. Alex Telles also left Manchester United to join Al Nassr.
The left-back, who's now joined Botafogo, recently spoke about how he joined the Knights of Njad due to Ronaldo's invitation, saying:
"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 made 38 appearances across competitions for the side last season, scoring three goals and providing five assists. He had also previously made 21 appearances across competitions with Cristiano Ronaldo during their time together at Manchester United.