Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Saudi Pro League announced the five-man shortlist for the 2025 Roshn League Player of the Season award on Monday, headlined by title-winning striker Karim Benzema and global icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Salem Al Dawsari.

Benzema, 37, delivered a vintage campaign to lead Al Ittihad to the league crown, scoring 21 goals and providing nine assists in 28 appearances.

The Frenchman, who received just one yellow card all season, played a decisive role in key matches to seal his club’s 14th top-flight title.

Al Hilal captain Salem Al Dawsari was also nominated after another consistent season.

The 34-year-old winger featured in 30 matches, contributing 15 goals and 14 assists as he pushed his team to a second-place finish.

Known for his discipline and work ethic, Al Dawsari picked up only two yellow cards across the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, continued to defy age with another prolific year for Al Nassr.

The Portuguese star registered 23 goals and three assists in 28 appearances, maintaining his status as one of the league’s most dangerous forwards.

From Al Ahli, Brazilian center-back Roger Ibañez earned a spot on the list after anchoring his side’s defense in a standout campaign.

In 30 appearances, he contributed five goals from the back line and collected seven yellow cards without being sent off.

Completing the shortlist is Argentine forward Cristian Guanca of Al Shabab.

The 32-year-old was a model of consistency, tallying 10 goals and 11 assists across 32 games — all while maintaining a spotless disciplinary record.

The winner will be announced in the league’s end-of-season awards ceremony.