Otávio leaves Al-Nassr and is officially announced as a new signing for Al-Qadisiyah for two seasons
Portuguese midfielder finds new challenge in Saudi Arabia after being released for free from Al-Nassr.
Al-Qadisiyah moves quickly to secure Otávio
Al-Qadisiyah officially announced on Monday (8) the signing of Otávio, who has left Al-Nassr after an agreement between the clubs. The Portuguese midfielder has signed a two-year contract, with the option for a further season, and was immediately presented as a reinforcement for the ongoing campaign.
According to Saudi media, the deal was completed without transfer fees, as Otávio was no longer part of Jorge Jesus’ plans for the 2025/26 season.
From Porto star to Al-Nassr exit
Otávio joined Al-Nassr in 2023 after leaving FC Porto in a record €60 million ($65m) transfer. Despite a solid first season, with 40 matches, one goal, and eight assists, he gradually lost space in the squad and was excluded from preseason preparations under the new coach.
His departure became inevitable, and Al-Qadisiyah acted quickly to bring in the experienced midfielder, betting on his ability to immediately strengthen their squad.
A leader for Al-Qadisiyah’s project
Currently sitting mid-table in the Saudi Pro League, Al-Qadisiyah sees Otávio as both a technical leader and a source of experience for the dressing room. The club’s board emphasized his versatility and tactical intelligence, qualities that make him a likely starter in the next rounds.
The signing reflects the club’s ambition to consolidate its position in the league and aim higher in the coming seasons.
Fresh start for the Portuguese international
For Otávio, the move represents a chance to regain prominence after a difficult spell in Riyadh. At 30, he remains in peak condition and hopes to continue playing at a high level while keeping his name alive in the Portuguese national team’s plans.
His staff is confident that consistent performances at Al-Qadisiyah could reopen the door to the Seleção in upcoming international cycles.
