Al Nassr Football Club, based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is one of the most successful and prestigious football clubs in the country. Established in 1955, the club has a long history of domestic and international success, earning numerous titles in the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup. Over the years, Al Nassr has attracted some of the best football talent, both from within Saudi Arabia and abroad. With Cristiano Ronaldo joining the team in 2022, Al Nassr has risen to greater prominence on the global football stage. Here’s a look at some of the key players in Al Nassr’s current roster, including both seasoned professionals and emerging stars.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr in December 2022 was a monumental event in Saudi football. The Portuguese forward, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, joined the club after leaving Manchester United. Ronaldo’s influence at Al Nassr extends beyond his exceptional goal-scoring ability—his leadership, work ethic, and professionalism have elevated the entire squad. Known for his sharp finishing, aerial prowess, and incredible fitness, Ronaldo quickly adapted to life in the Saudi Pro League. His goals have helped guide Al Nassr to significant victories and bolstered the club’s push for domestic titles and success in international competitions like the AFC Champions League.
Ronaldo’s presence has also increased the global visibility of the Saudi Pro League, attracting international attention and fans, and motivating Al Nassr to aim for even greater heights.
2. Anderson Talisca
Brazilian attacking midfielder Anderson Talisca is another vital player for Al Nassr. Signed in 2021, Talisca has been an influential figure in the team’s offensive play. Known for his powerful long-range shots, vision, and technical skills, Talisca often plays as an attacking midfielder or forward. His ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute with goals makes him a key player in Al Nassr’s offensive system. Talisca has become one of the club’s most dependable attacking options, forging strong partnerships with players like Ronaldo to deliver exciting and creative football.
3. Abdullah Al-Dosari
Abdullah Al-Dosari is a talented Saudi midfielder who has been integral to Al Nassr’s midfield engine. Known for his versatility and ability to control the tempo of the game, Al-Dosari provides balance to the squad, offering defensive solidity and offensive support. His work ethic and passing range make him an essential part of the team, often linking up with more attacking players like Talisca and Ronaldo. Al-Dosari’s experience in the Saudi Pro League has allowed him to shine in crucial moments, contributing both defensively and offensively.
4. David Ospina
The Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina joined Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving Napoli. A seasoned international goalkeeper with over 100 caps for Colombia, Ospina brings a wealth of experience to Al Nassr’s defense. His reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and leadership at the back have made him a key figure for the club. Ospina’s calmness under pressure and ability to organize the defense provide Al Nassr with a sense of stability and assurance in goal. His presence further strengthens Al Nassr’s aspirations in both domestic and international competitions.
5. Alvaro González
Spanish defender Álvaro González is an experienced center-back who joined Al Nassr in 2022. González has played for some top clubs, including Olympique de Marseille in France. His strength, aerial ability, and tactical intelligence have made him an important part of Al Nassr’s defense. Known for his leadership and communication skills, González often plays a crucial role in organizing the defense, making key interceptions, and dealing with aerial threats. His experience at the top level of European football has helped raise the defensive standards at Al Nassr.
6. Nordin Amrabat
Moroccan midfielder Nordin Amrabat has been a significant player for Al Nassr, known for his dynamism, dribbling ability, and attacking flair. Having played for top clubs in Europe, including Galatasaray and Watford, Amrabat brings extensive experience to the Saudi Pro League. His physicality and versatility allow him to play in various positions across the midfield and attack. Amrabat’s creativity and ability to make incisive runs and deliver key passes make him a valuable asset for Al Nassr in their attacking play.
7. Mohammed Al-Fatil
Mohammed Al-Fatil is a young Saudi center-back who has shown great promise at Al Nassr. Known for his defensive solidity, Al-Fatil has been an emerging talent in the Saudi Pro League. His strong tackling, ability to read the game, and aerial dominance make him a key player for Al Nassr’s backline. Al-Fatil’s performances have garnered attention, and he is considered one of the future stars of Saudi football.
8. Abdulrahman Al-Obaid
Abdulrahman Al-Obaid is a reliable left-back for Al Nassr who has proven to be an essential part of the team’s defense. His pace, crossing ability, and defensive positioning allow him to contribute both defensively and offensively. Al-Obaid is known for making overlapping runs on the left wing, providing width in Al Nassr’s attacking play. His ability to deliver dangerous crosses into the box makes him an asset in the attacking third.
9. Tareq Hamed
Tareq Hamed, an Egyptian defensive midfielder, joined Al Nassr in 2023. Known for his tenacity, work rate, and ability to break up opposition attacks, Hamed provides the team with a solid foundation in midfield. His aggressive tackling, leadership, and tactical discipline make him a key player in Al Nassr’s midfield. Hamed’s presence has added an extra layer of protection to the team’s defense, helping them control the flow of the game and maintain stability in matches.
10. Pity Martínez
Argentine attacking midfielder Gonzalo “Pity” Martínez joined Al Nassr in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time at River Plate in Argentina and Atlanta United in the US. Known for his dribbling, flair, and creativity, Martínez adds a creative spark to Al Nassr’s midfield. His ability to pick out key passes, take on defenders, and create goal-scoring opportunities makes him an important player for the team. Martínez’s experience playing in high-pressure situations at the international level with Argentina further enhances his value to Al Nassr.
Conclusion: A Star-Studded Squad
Al Nassr’s roster is filled with a blend of experienced stars and promising young talents, making it one of the most formidable teams in the Saudi Pro League and beyond. With the addition of global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, the team’s ambitions have risen even higher, not just aiming for domestic glory but also setting their sights on international success. The combination of attacking brilliance from players like Ronaldo and Anderson Talisca, defensive solidity from the likes of Álvaro González and David Ospina, and midfield creativity from Nordin Amrabat and Tareq Hamed positions Al Nassr as one of the top clubs in Asia. As the team continues to grow, its players will undoubtedly continue to deliver exciting performances, pushing Al Nassr to even greater heights in Saudi and international football.