Portuguese forward Joao Felix enjoyed an outstanding debut season in the Saudi Pro League, earning recognition as the league’s Player of the Season on Friday following a series of influential performances for Al Nassr.
Felix secured the award ahead of his club teammate and fellow Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo, despite Ronaldo playing a decisive role in Al Nassr’s title-winning campaign.
Just a day before the individual awards were announced, Al Nassr sealed the Saudi Pro League championship with a 4-1 victory over Damac. Ronaldo scored twice in that match, helping his side finish two points ahead of rivals Al Hilal. The triumph marked Ronaldo’s first major trophy since joining Saudi Arabian football.
Although Ronaldo finished the season with 28 league goals at the age of 41, the Player of the Season award ultimately went to Felix because of his broader contribution across the campaign. In addition to scoring 20 goals, Felix also registered a league-high 13 assists, making him one of the most productive attacking players in the competition.
Felix joined Al Nassr from Chelsea earlier this season in a transfer reportedly worth around €30 million. After signing a two-year contract, he adapted quickly to Saudi football and became a central figure in Al Nassr’s attacking structure during his first year at the club.
Throughout the season, Felix operated in a creative role behind the forwards while also contributing directly in front of goal. His combination of scoring ability and playmaking proved vital in several league matches as Al Nassr maintained pressure in the title race before eventually securing the championship.
Following the title success, Felix spoke about the confidence placed in him by the coaching staff. He said he enjoys football most when playing in his natural position and added that the coach had trusted him with responsibility for controlling the team’s attacking play. According to Felix, that level of confidence helped simplify his role on the pitch.
Meanwhile, Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus was named Saudi Pro League Coach of the Season after guiding the club to the league title. However, shortly after receiving the award, he confirmed that the campaign had been his final season in charge of Al Nassr.
Key Statistics From The Season
| Player | Goals | Assists | Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joao Felix | 20 | 13 | Saudi Pro League Player of the Season |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 28 | Not specified | Helped Al Nassr win league title |
The season highlighted the significant influence of Portuguese players at Al Nassr, with both Ronaldo and Felix playing leading roles in the club’s successful title campaign.