Al-Nassr open talks with Sergio Conceicao over vacant managerial role | OneFootball

Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr have opened discussions with Sergio Conceicao as they begin their search for a new head coach amid the impending departure of Stefano Pioli, according to Nico Shira.

Pioli was hired back in September to replace Luis Castro in the Al-Nassr dugout but is currently on the verge of joining Serie A outfit Fiorentina for a second spell.

Al-Nassr, disappointed with another underwhelming season on the domestic and continental front last time out, are now aiming to appoint a high‑profile manager capable of delivering instant success.

Conceicao, who most recently managed AC Milan until late May 2025, is currently available after leading Porto to three Primeira Liga titles between 2017 and 2024 before a short stint in Serie A.

While the 50-year-old was unable to replicate the level of success he had at Porto with Milan, he led the Rossoneri to a Supercoppa title, beating arch-rivals Inter Milan in the grand finale, while also reaching the final of the Coppa Italia.

A former teammate of Al-Nassr talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, Conceicao could now soon be managing the legendary Portuguese, who also plays with his son Francisco on the international scene.

Negotiations are still in the preliminary stages, with Al‑Nassr working to finalise terms that satisfy both parties and are reportedly moving swiftly to secure him before preseason training begins.

Conceicao has reportedly been offered a two-year deal with the option for a third as Al-Nassr seek to end a six-year wait for Saudi Pro League glory.

Off the back of a third-place finish in the 2024-25 campaign, the Knights of Najd will not be participating in next season’s edition of the AFC Champions League, and that reduced burden, while less than ideal for a club of that stature, could work in their favour.