Ange Postecoglou has been appointed as the new head coach of Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr, signing a two-year contract that will see him manage Cristiano Ronaldo. The Australian takes over after two difficult spells in the Premier League, seeking to revive his career in the Middle East.
Official announcement and contract details
“A new chapter. Mr Ange Postecoglou appointed as head coach of the Al-Nassr first team. The contract spans two seasons,” the club said in a statement. “We wish him and his staff every success in their journey.” The appointment comes after Al-Nassr won the Saudi Pro League title on the final day of the season in May under former manager Jorge Jesus, who stepped down following the triumph.
Postecoglou’s recent struggles in England
Postecoglou previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, where he guided the club to Europa League glory in 2025. However, he was sacked just two weeks later after Tottenham finished 17th in the Premier League. His subsequent stint at Nottingham Forest in the 2025-26 season ended disastrously after only 40 days. He went winless in his opening eight games in charge, suffering six defeats, leading to a swift dismissal.
Previous links and career highlights
The 60-year-old had been linked with the Scotland job after Steve Clarke stepped down following their World Cup exit, as well as a role with Kazakhstan. Media reports indicated his wage demands were too high for the central Asian side. Despite his recent setbacks, Postecoglou boasts an impressive resume: he won two Scottish Premiership titles with Celtic, and league titles with Brisbane Roar in the A-League and Yokohama F Marinos in Japan. He also managed the Australia men's national team from 2013 to 2017.
Task ahead with Al-Nassr
Postecoglou takes over a star-studded Al-Nassr squad led by Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who played a key role in the club's league title win. The Australian will aim to build on that success and restore his reputation after his Premier League disappointments.
