Cristiano Ronaldo has been overlooked for the Saudi Pro League Player of the Season award, with the honour going to his Al Nassr and Portugal teammate Joao Felix. Felix was recognised for his all-round contribution, despite Ronaldo scoring 28 goals in the league this season.
Felix's Impact at Al Nassr
Felix registered 13 assists in the Saudi Pro League this season, more than any other player, and scored 20 goals, helping Al Nassr secure their 11th league title and their first since 2018-19. The 25-year-old joined Al Nassr last summer after a disappointing second spell at Chelsea, where he made just three Premier League starts before leaving on loan to AC Milan in January 2025.
Title Decider Against Damac
Al Nassr clinched the title with a 4-1 victory over Damac on the final day of the season, with Ronaldo scoring twice and Felix also on the scoresheet. The win took Al Nassr to 86 points, two clear of record champions Al Hilal. The title had been delayed a week earlier after a stoppage-time error from goalkeeper Bento led to a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal.
Felix's Career Resurgence
Felix, who cost Atletico Madrid £113m as a teenager, has been criticised for not fulfilling his early potential, but his performances in Saudi Arabia have drawn praise. He was named in Portugal's squad for his second World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The squad announcement included a tribute to Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash last summer.
Ronaldo's World Cup Record
Ronaldo, 41, is set to play in a record sixth World Cup. Portugal boss Roberto Martinez said: 'We manage the Cristiano Ronaldo that plays for the national team trying to get into the squad for 2026, not the iconic figure. Age is only a number.' Martinez is expected to stand down after the tournament, with reports linking him to a coaching role at Al Nassr.
