Madrid legend Hierro joins Ronaldo at Al Nassr

Former Chivas sporting director Fernando Hierro has joined Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, the club has confirmed.

“Hierro has extensive sports experience,” Al Nassr said in a statement announcing his appointment.

The former Real Madrid star will link up with Cristiano Ronaldo at the Saudi club, with a source telling ESPN that the pair have a good connection.

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Al Nassr tried to sign the 56-year-old before, and eventually won him over with a better offer as sporting director of their team, sources added.

Initially hired by Chivas after their 2022 Apertura run, the former Madrid star fell just short of helping bring a trophy to the Liga MX giants after an appearance in the 2023 Clausura final.

During Hierro’s stint with Chivas, the sporting director brought in manager Veljko Paunovic, who was then replaced by Fernando Gago after Paunovic mutually parted ways with Chivas in 2023. Gago is the team’s current manager.

Al Nassr finished 2023-24 at second in the Saudi Pro League standings and without a title in the Saudi Cup or AFC Champions League.

Information from ESPN Mexico reporters Diego Yvey and Omar Flores was used in this report.