Muhammad Nazrul bin Ahmad Nazari (born 11 February 1991), more commonly known as Nazrul Nazari or mononymously as Nazrul, is a Singaporean professional footballer who plays as a full-back or winger for Singapore Premier League club Hougang United whom he's the vice-captain of and the Singapore national team. Known for his pace, leadership skills and offensive attributes, Nazrul is regarded as one of the most consistent defenders in the league but is also capable of playing on the wings when called upon. He is currently Hougang United's highest all-time appearance maker and also currently the most loyal player in the league.
Nazrul began his career with youth development side, Young Lions before joining the LionsXII at the end of his developing stint. He joined Hougang United in 2016 and after a successful 2019 season, he was named in the league's Team of the Year. He is most known and remembered for his double somersault celebrations.
Nazrul is also a Singapore international, being a consistent member of the squad since his debut in 2012. He currently has amassed 60 appearances for the Lions.
Club career
Young Lions
Nazrul began his professional football career with Under-23 side Young Lions in the S.League in 2009.
LionsXII
In December 2011, the FAS announced that Nazrul was to join the newly formed LionsXII for the 2012 Malaysia Super League.
Hougang United
In 2016, Nazrul signed for Hougang United for the 2016 S.League campaign after LionsXII was disbanded in 2015. On 19 November 2022, Nazrul won the 2022 Singapore Cup, helping the Cheetahs clinch their first ever piece of silverware.
2023 season
On 26 February 2023, Nazrul became the fourth most capped player in Hougang after his start against Balestier Khalsa saw him reach 150 appearances, he capped his milestone with an assist for the opening goal. On 3 June 2023, Nazrul scored the second goal against Young Lions.
His start against the same opposition in Round 3 saw him joint third with Nurhilmi Jasni with 165 appearances and he would break that number and be the second most capped player after playing against the Young Lions.
International career
Nazrul made his international debut for Singapore in a friendly match against Hong Kong on 15 August 2012.
In 2022, Nazrul was included in the team for the 2022 FAS Tri-Nations Series and 2022 AFF Championship.
Career statistics
Club
. Caps and goals may not be correct.
Young Lions and LionsXII are ineligible for qualification to AFC competitions in their respective leagues. Young Lions withdrew from the 2011 and 2012 Singapore Cup, and the 2011 Singapore League Cup due to participation in AFC and AFF youth competitions.
International
International caps
International goals
Scores and results list Singapore's goal tally first.