Italian coach Gennaro Gattuso has become the leading candidate to take over coaching duties at Al Nassr, succeeding Dutch manager Alfred Schreuder, who is set to part ways with the club following the final match of the season against Al Ain on Friday.

This transition occurs as Al Nassr looks to reinforce its coaching lineup amid ongoing efforts to identify a suitable replacement.

The club recently experienced challenges in negotiating with Argentine manager Matías Almeyda, prompting a swift intensification of their search for a new head coach.

Alongside Gattuso, the candidate pool includes a Portuguese manager with prior experience in the region, reflecting Al Nassr’s strategy to explore diverse coaching options.

The recent appointment of Italian Rocco Maiorino, formerly of A.C. Milan, to the role of sporting director at Al Nassr is seen as a development that may increase Gattuso’s chances of securing the managerial position for the upcoming season.

Gattuso’s coaching career has included stints with prestigious European clubs, notably managing his former team, A.C. Milan, from November 2017 to May 2019, as well as Fiorentina, Napoli, Valencia, and Olympique Marseille.

His reputation in football is bolstered by his well-known tenacity during his playing career, particularly during his time with Milan and the Italian national team, with which he won the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

He began his coaching career at the Swiss club Sion in 2012, subsequently managing Palermo, the Greek club Asteras Tripoli, and Pisa.

Notably, he led Napoli to victory in the Coppa Italia in 2020, enhancing his credentials as a capable manager in competitive leagues.