Diagnosed with infection, will Cristiano Ronaldo play tonight in Al Nassr vs Al Ettifaq under new coach Stefano Pioli?

Al Nassr look set to turn things around. After parting ways with coach Luis Castro, the Knights of Najd have found a silver lining with the arrival of Stefano Pioli. The former AC Milan manager faces his first challenge tonight against Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq. However, beyond Pioli’s debut, doubts remain over whether Cristiano Ronaldo He will travel with the team ahead of the debut of his new coach.

The Portuguese superstar missed the previous match after being diagnosed with a viral infection. Ahead of the clash against Al Ahli Saudi, Al Nassr issued a statement to address his absence, stating that the 39-year-old needs plenty of rest to recover from his discomfort. Therefore, instead of travelling with the team, he stayed at home to watch his teammates play out a 1-1 draw against Al Ahli Saudi.

Notably, Recent reports revealed that after the dismissal of Luis Castro, the players were informed upon arrival that training had been cancelled. I had the option to Among the two teams that decided to stay and train or go home, only two players decided to stay: Ronaldo and Aymeric Laporte. He was also present during a brief briefing of the team under new coach Pioli.

The captain’s return to training also suggests there has been a significant improvement in his health. Therefore, fans can expect Cristiano Ronaldo to play. tonight against Al Ettifaq. However, he is unlikely to be a starter. Of course, if the Manchester United icon recovers in time and is ready, so We’ll see it in action.

That to What do you expect from Stefano Pioli as coach of Cristiano Ronaldo and company?

Al Nassr is certainly signing a manager with an impressive track record. Stefano Pioli has coached over 15 Italian clubs, including Parma, Sassuolo, Lazio, Inter and Fiorentina. His most recent stint was at AC Milan, where he guided the Rossoneri to the Serie A title in the 2021-22 season. Pioli will undoubtedly be looking to achieve the success that Ronaldo and his teammates have been eagerly seeking. Of course he should, considering the hopes people have for him.

Since then Cristiano Ronaldo has entered the scene and Al Nassr have had limited success, with the Arab Club Champions Cup being their only significant triumph. In the past two seasons, they have failed to win other major trophies, such as the Saudi Pro League, Saudi Super Cup and AFC Champions League. Pioli’s biggest challenge will undoubtedly be to secure at least one title.

Moreover, the players must quickly adapt to the style of their new coach. Fortunately, the season has just started, giving them enough time to align their goals for the 2024/25 campaign. Currently, Al Nassr are in 7th place with just 5 points, having drawn 1-1 twice against Al Ahli Saudi and Al Raed, while securing a 4-1 win over Al Feiha.

Hopefully, as they move forward, they will find balance and consistency. Otherwise, changing coaches won’t have much of an impact. In the meantime, let’s see. How are you doing? The result of tonight’s match.