Cristiano Ronaldo sends message to former Al-Nassr boss Luis Castro as he's appointed head coach of Brazilian club

Cristiano Ronaldo has reacted to Gremio's decision to appoint his former Al-Nassr manager, Luis Castro, as their head coach. The Portuguese forward applauded the appointment of Castro following the dismissal of the previous head coach, Mano Menezes.

In a post on their official Instagram, Gremio announced:

"LU domingos CASTRO IS HOME 🇪🇪 With encouragement and support, we received our new coach early this Sunday. We welcome you, Mister! We'll be together, through whatever happens!."

Ronaldo commented:

"👏 🔥."

Cristiano Ronaldo's comment was singled out by fans after it generated a good number of engagements on Gremio's Instagram handle. Meanwhile, Menezes' dismissal was unexpected, given that he had been at the helm of affairs for less than nine months.

The decision to part with Menezes could have been fueled by Gremio's inconsistent run in the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. They ended the league term in ninth place after registering 49 points from 38 games played.

Even though Menezes managed to secure a CONMEBOL Sudamericana group stage spot for Gremio, he was axed. Thus, Luis Castro is expected to improve the club's results as they prepare for the fresh season.

Castro has proven to be a good and experienced manager who has managed several clubs in numerous continents. Al-Nassr registered 39 victories, drew nine, and lost nine out of the 54 games he managed.

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How has Cristiano Ronaldo performed at Al-Nassr this season?

Al Nassr v Al Wahda - Friendlies - Source: Getty

Cristiano Ronaldo has been a key player in the Knights of Nadj's starting XI and attack. His expertise has likewise helped Al-Nassr in securing crucial points and victories across competitions this term.

The Portuguese skipper has scored the second-highest number of goals in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season (10). Meanwhile, Ronaldo has scored 11 goals and registered two assists in 12 appearances across competitions for the club.

A performance that has played its part in helping Al-Nassr in dominating rivals teams in the league and beyond. The Knights of Najd are the leaders in the league standings, having registered 27 points from nine games.

They are likewise five points ahead of second-placed Al-Hilal in the early race to be crowned the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League winners. Al-Nassr will take on Al-Zawraa in their next game in the AFC Champions League on Wednesday, December 24.

Edited by Abel Yisa