Postecoglou Reveals Ronaldo Influenced Al Nassr Decision

Al Nassr manager Ange Postecoglou has revealed that the opportunity to coach Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the major attractions behind his decision to join the Saudi Arabian club. The 61-year-old Australian was appointed in July on a two-year contract following the departure of Jorge Jesus, who has since taken charge of Portugal. Speaking on the LiSTNR podcast The Howie Games, Postecoglou said he was attracted by the prospect of becoming a small part of the story of one of football’s greatest players. He reflected on his previous associations with legendary figures, recalling that Ferenc Puskas coached him during his playing career. Postecoglou also highlighted his work with Australia great Tim Cahill and South Korean star Son Heung-min, saying those experiences had allowed him to play a small role in the journeys of outstanding players. He said the chance to have a similar association with Ronaldo appealed to him as part of his own journey in football.

Postecoglou has made an unbeaten start to the 2026–27 campaign with Al Nassr and was named the Saudi Pro League Manager of the Month for August. The club boasts a star-studded squad that includes Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix. The Australian manager will now look to build on his strong start as Al Nassr seeks to defend its Saudi league title and pursue a first-ever Asian Champions League Elite crown. Postecoglou said his attraction to working with Ronaldo was not driven by personal ambition or a desire to have his own name linked to the Portugal captain, but by the significance of being involved, even in a small way, in the career journey of a player of Ronaldo’s stature.

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