Mutaz El Nour

Richmond defender Mutaz El Nour has been named in the Smithy's VFL Team of the Year squad of 48, for the second consecutive year.

The key defender played 18 games in 2026, leading from the front, helping develop young key back men throughout the season under coach Jack Madgen.

El Nour was selected in the Smithy’s VFL State Team squad of 43 this season, following a strong start to his campaign, when he collected 16 and 17 disposals in Rounds 1 and 2 respectively.

He stood tall with a season-best 23 disposals against Frankston in Round 6, taking 10 marks and laying five tackles in the narrow loss.

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VFL Round 9: An unlikely first goal scorer

Mutaz El Nour capitalises on a 50m penalty to get the VFL Tigers on the board.

The 25-year-old followed up with 10 marks against Box Hill in Round 8, as well as another nine against Carlton in Round 15.

Madgen heaped praise on the vice-captain throughout the season, highlighted through his leadership in the backline through a difficult season.

He averaged 16.3 disposals, 8.4 intercepts and 6.7 marks in 2026.

“El Nour was exceptional and solid in defence all season,” Madgen said earlier this year.

“He was confident and used the ball well, always defending with intent this year.”