Cristiano Ronaldo's considerable sway within Al-Nassr has come to light following the appointment of Ange Postecoglou as the club's new manager. The 60-year-old former Tottenham boss was announced on Friday night as the Saudi Pro League champions' new head coach, replacing Jorge Jesus, whose contract expired after winning the title.
Ronaldo's Role in Managerial Decisions
Postecoglou, who was reportedly an early favourite to succeed Steve Clarke as Scotland manager, was lured to the Middle East after demanding £4.2 million to become the Kazakhstan national team boss. He now joins a star-studded squad at one of the world's richest clubs. However, he has been warned about the power his superstar striker wields in executive decisions, including managerial appointments.
Jorge Jesus, who previously managed Benfica and Al-Hilal, revealed Ronaldo's influence in his own hiring. In 2025, the 71-year-old said: "Not when it comes to players specifically, but he did have an influence in my appointment. For example, Jose Semedo, the CEO, and Cristiano both invited me to take on the role of coaching Al Nassr and to take on the challenge of turning the team into champions and of course, I accepted that challenge."
Postecoglou's New Challenge
Postecoglou's arrival likely had Ronaldo's approval, but he faces volatility. His predecessor, Stefano Pioli, faced criticism before his exit. Ronaldo paid tribute to Pioli on social media, but journalist Gianluigi Longari revealed tensions between Pioli and Al-Nassr players, including Ronaldo, before his departure.
Postecoglou, who recently endured a difficult spell at Nottingham Forest under Evangelos Marinakis, is aware of the instability. He inherits a squad featuring Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, and Kingsley Coman. His reputation for winning in his second season will be tested in this high-pressure environment.
