Premier League manager being considered for coaching role at Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al-Nassr: Reports

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According to reports from Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr are interested in signing Unai Emery as their manager. The Spanish tactician is being considered a viable option to replace Stefano Pioli, who is tipped to take over duties with the Italian National team.

The Azzuri are set to appoint a new head coach after Luciano Spalletti was dismissed following their 3-0 World Cup Qualifier defeat to Norway on Friday (June 6). With Pioli a frontrunner for the job in his homeland, his Riyadh-based employers are set to find a new manager, which could trigger a chain reaction of hirings and departures in the managerial market.

Unai Emery has four Europa League titles and has managed European clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Arsenal, and Sevilla. The Spaniard has been magnificent for Aston Villa since his appointment in 2022. He has led the Birmingham-based side to the UEFA Champions League in consecutive seasons, while averaging 1.81 points per game from his 140 games.

Al-Nassr are looking to convince Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at the club. The legendary Portuguese star is out of contract by the end of June. The Riyadh-based side would hope that the potential arrival of Emery will help convince the five-time Ballon d'Or winner to stay.


A look at Cristiano Ronaldo's legacy at Al-Nassr

Since his arrival on a free transfer from Manchester United in January 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has been impressive for Al-Nassr. The Portuguese legend has registered himself in the history books. He is the third most prolific goal-scorer in the club's history after Mohammed Al-Sahlawi (123 goals) and Abderrazak Hamdallah (115 goals).

Ronaldo has recorded 93 goals and 19 assists in 105 appearances for the Knights of Najd. Despite his efficiency in front of goal, he has failed to help the side to any major silverware. With his contract set to expire on June 30, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner could call time on his stay at Al-Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains keen on representing Portugal at the 2026 World Cup and could still represent most clubs on the planet, given his profile and continued abilities. The Portuguese superstar scored 35 goals and provided four assists in 41 appearances in the 2024-25 season, though his side finished third in the Saudi Pro League.