Stefano Pioli leaves Saudi club Al Nassr, linked with Fiorentina job

 Stefano Pioli leaves Saudi club Al Nassr, linked with Fiorentina job

Stefano Pioli has officially parted ways with Saudi club Al Nassr, ending his tenure after just nine months. The club made the announcement via social media on Wednesday, stating that Pioli and his coaching staff would no longer be handling the first team. Although no specific reason was cited for the exit, it comes as something of a surprise given the short duration of his stay.

 Al Nassr simply expressed gratitude to the Italian coach for his work during the previous season. Under Pioli’s leadership, Al Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League  a result that fell short of the club’s high ambitions, especially with global star Cristiano Ronaldo in their squad. Pioli had taken over the club in September 2024, and expectations were high following his success with European clubs. 

However, his time in Saudi Arabia appears to have come to an abrupt end without any official explanation. The decision marks yet another coaching change at a club known for quick turnovers and ambitious goals. Despite the early exit, Pioli's international experience continues to make him a coach in demand. His brief stint in the Middle East might now open the door for a return to more familiar territory.

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Following his exit from Al Nassr, Stefano Pioli is now being strongly linked with a return to Fiorentina — a club he previously managed before his successful spell at AC Milan. Reports in Italy suggest that Fiorentina, who are currently restructuring their technical setup, see Pioli as a top candidate to lead their next chapter. 

This would mark Pioli’s second stint with the Florence-based club, where he previously coached from 2017 to 2019. The 59-year-old is widely respected in Italian football circles, especially after guiding AC Milan to the Serie A title in 2022. That achievement was seen as the high point of his career and helped cement his reputation as a top-tier tactician. Prior to his Milan success, Pioli had held managerial roles at Inter Milan, Lazio, Bologna, and of course Fiorentina. 

His familiarity with Serie A and deep experience with Italian football make him an appealing option for Fiorentina, who are aiming to return to European competitions. Although nothing has been confirmed, the links between Pioli and Fiorentina have already gained traction in the media, and a decision could come soon. If appointed, Pioli would inherit a squad in transition but with plenty of potential. A return to Italy might just be the perfect move after an uncertain spell in Saudi Arabia.

For now, all eyes remain on Fiorentina’s next managerial decision as fans await official confirmation.