Richmond VFL defender Mutaz El Nour has been selected in the final VFL Team of the Year for 2025, following his outstanding season in the yellow and black.
El Nour was named on the interchange bench in the esteemed team. It is his first time being named.
The VFL vice-captain enjoyed an impressive and injury-free season, once again establishing himself as a key pillar in the side’s defence in his third year at the Club, and his fifth at VFL level.
He spoke of the honour he felt being named in the highly-touted side on Monday night.
"I'm truly humbled by this recognition," El Nour told Richmond Media.
"This year, I really wanted to hold down my spot in the side and focus on the fundamentals, week in, week out.
"I've had my fair share of setbacks over the past couple of seasons, so to play every game this year was so rewarding and I loved every minute."
An intercept defender, a strong one-on-one player and a great ball-user, El Nour played a crucial role across the entire season, helping Richmond win their Wildcard Final over GWS, which saw them reach an Elimination Final against the Brisbane Lions.
The leader also thanked VFL coach Jake Batchelor and the wider program for their support in 2025.
"It's a fantastic program. I owe so much to the people within it who consistently push me to be the best footballer and leader I can be," he said.
"I'm really proud of what we achieved this year. I love playing under 'Batch' (Batchelor), and making finals was really special."
Early this season, the 24-year-old represented the VFL in the AAMI State Game against the SANFL's West End State Team during the AFL's Gather Round.
El Nour averaged 17 disposals, three tackles and five marks this season, playing in 20 matches across the year.
He dominated in the Tigers' 41-point win over Sandringham in Round 20, notching a season-high 24 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, eight marks, two tackles, running at an impressive 88 per cent disposal efficiency.
The final VFL team of the year was announced at Monday night's awards ceremony.
