Cristiano Ronaldo is beginning another season with Al Nassr, aiming to win his first official trophy with the Saudi club. The team has been active in the transfer market, confirming the departure of one of its key players, who is moving to a Saudi Pro League rival.
The player leaving is Portuguese midfielder Otavio, as announced by Al Nassr on social media. He has signed a two-year deal with Al Qadsiah as a free agent, marking his fifth club after Internacional, Vitória SC, Porto, and Al Nassr.
Otavio joined Al Nassr in August 2023 from Porto for €60 million and was expected to be a key player. Over two seasons in Riyadh, he made 84 appearances and scored 12 goals along with 16 assists. However, his performance did not meet expectations.
After Jorge Jesus became head coach, Otavio’s playing time decreased. He missed the European preseason tour and the trip to Hong Kong for the Saudi Super Cup. With new signings like Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman, his exit from the team seemed inevitable.
Otavio of Al Nassr celebrates a goal with Cristiano Ronaldo. (Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Otavio’s farewell message to Al Nassr
In his farewell message to fans, Otavio expressed gratitude and some regret. “The time has come to say goodbye, and it’s not easy to find the right words. I arrived in a different country, with its own unique culture, and I couldn’t have asked for better people to welcome me. Each of you made this experience truly special,” he wrote.
“This is not the way I would have wished to leave Al Nassr, but soccer is like that… full of decisions beyond our control. Riyadh will always remain a special place in my life,” he added.
Otavio concluded by thanking supporters directly: “To the Al Nassr fans, thank you for your constant support and for making me feel part of this family. You have been special in every moment, and you deserve so much more. I wish you all happiness and success. Thank you, Al Nassr,” he said.
Aymeric Laporte’s stalled transfer
Meanwhile, defender Aymeric Laporte remains with Al Nassr after his expected transfer back to Athletic Club fell through. According to Diario AS, FIFA blocked the transfer because the required paperwork was submitted late. As a result, Laporte will continue with Ronaldo in Riyadh until January 2026, when the next transfer window opens and Athletic Club can register him.