Postecoglou warns of no guarantees as Ronaldo returns to Al Nassr

Ange Postecoglou, the newly appointed head coach of Al Nassr, told reporters ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign that he “does not promise anything” about the club’s trophy prospects, even as Cristiano Ronaldo completed his first training session with the Saudi side.

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially rejoined his teammates and finished his inaugural training session at Al Nassr, signalling his readiness for the upcoming season under the new management.

Postecoglou tempers expectations

When asked about the road ahead, Postecoglou said plainly, “I do not promise anything,” emphasizing a realistic approach despite the high expectations surrounding the squad.

He added, “Of course, I do not promise anything, and I have always achieved something in my first season,” underscoring his ambition while refusing to guarantee silverware.

During a press conference at the Dar Al Nassr training complex, the coach reflected on a demanding preseason that yielded a 1‑3 record, noting, “When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well.”

Contracts and track record

Postecoglou is under contract with Al Nassr until June 2028, a term that exceeds Ronaldo’s deal, which runs through June 2027.

The Australian manager highlighted his pattern of success in second seasons, recalling his statement at Tottenham Hotspur: “I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don’t say things unless I believe them.”

His second‑year triumphs span South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, Celtic and Tottenham, where he ended a 17‑year trophy drought by winning the 2024‑25 UEFA Europa League.

Postecoglou also became the first manager from his country to lead a Saudi Pro League side, proudly noting, “I am an Australian born in Greece, and I have become the first Australian coach in Saudi Arabia, just as I was in England and Japan.”

Unlike last season, Al Nassr will compete in the AFC Champions League Elite alongside the Saudi Pro League, the King’s Cup and the Saudi Super Cup, after securing a return to the elite tier by winning the SPL title.

Last season, under Jorge Jesus, the club captured the Saudi Pro League title and finished as runners‑up in the AFC Champions League Two, setting a platform for Postecoglou’s debut campaign.