At 63 Luis Castro is a veteran football coach who talks fervently about the beautiful game. Most notably in recent memory, was with Al Nassr where he was given the chance to of course coach Cristiano Ronaldo. Castro has crafted an impressive career at all levels of play. He’s managed in Portugal, Ukraine, and now Saudi Arabia, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in world football.
Castro’s path began in the fourth division of Portugal. Throughout the years, he’s perfected his coaching philosophy and modified himself to the new, constantly changing landscape of football. His tenure at youth academies have provided him with a different level of insight into younger players. With this deep-rooted understanding, he knows how to provide strategies that enable his teams to grow and be adaptable.
Under Castro’s guidance at Al Nassr, Ronaldo flourished, scoring a ludicrous 55 goals in 55 appearances. This amazing record speaks to all of Ronaldo’s talent, but even more so to Castro’s ability to tap into, cultivate, and maximize that talent. Ronaldo netted twice in extra time as Al Nassr lifted the Arab Club Champions Cup. Castro’s masterclass was key in Al Nassr’s triumphant run and went on to cement Castro’s name as one of the elite coaches.
Castro believes that much of Ronaldo’s success and longevity can be traced back to the player’s internalized habits and healthy culture around training. He emphasizes that Ronaldo’s great respect for practice and the game has been fundamental in maintaining his performance levels even as he continues to play into his late thirties.
“What set him apart is what happens before and after training – the so-called ‘invisible training’ that he does,” – Luis Castro
The coach understands that the ability to adapt coaching methodologies and development philosophies is paramount in today’s game. Football has, in his mind, become too tied up with science, weighing everything from practice conditions to rest and recovery methods. The growing demands of today’s game require a greater emphasis on recovery and an overall care for the athlete.
“The intensity has increased, which has forced us to change our training methodologies and focus more on player recovery,” – Luis Castro
Castro strongly emphasizes the need for versatility among his staff. His overarching goal is to give players a greater understanding of different systems and to help them make faster, more informed decisions on the pitch. This method doesn’t just improve their respective craft, but fosters improved chemistry between the two.
“We look at each player and we adjust things,” – Luis Castro
He elaborates on this philosophy by stating, “We adjust according to their identity. That is exactly what I do – with Cristiano and with everyone else. That is my duty as a leader, as a coach.” This one-on-one, customized coaching approach has been successful when it comes to helping players achieve their full potential.
With a prior championship ring from coaching Shakhtar Donetsk, Castro’s success runs deeper than single players’ stars. Not only has he lifted silverware in four different countries, but he is used to adapting and sinking his teeth into different football cultures. His journey laid the foundation for a brand of coaching deeply rooted in personal development and lifelong learning.
“Coaches learn from players. Anyone who thinks they know everything becomes stuck. It is a very limiting mindset.” – Luis Castro
Castro’s commitment to long-term development goes further than tactical changes. He appreciates the power of positive role models to guide players’ development. “Every positive example helps us grow. Our parents, our friends,” he notes, reflecting on the broader context of player development.
As he embarks on this next phase of his coaching journey, Castro knows he must stay committed to changing with the game. He is truly committed to finding out what players want and need. By developing a culture to help them succeed, he’s gained a lot of respect and credibility in the football community.
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