Joao Felix is currently in a good moment in his career, assisting and scoring in the Saudi Arabian league, something made possible by leaving Chelsea, a decision he says was the right one.
Since signing for Al-Nassr in July 2025 for £44 million, Felix has experienced a genuine transformation. The 26-year-old has scored 15 goals and provided 12 assists in just 26 league matches, marking a significant improvement over his disappointing Premier League form.
During his two spells at Chelsea, one on loan and another after a permanent transfer for £42 million, Felix managed only 11 goals in 40 matches. Although he was part of the squad that lifted the Conference League trophy, he was often relegated to the bench.
His move to Riyadh came after a brief loan to AC Milan, marking the definitive end of a frustrating period in European football in which his tactical fit was constantly questioned.
Felix continues to praise his former clubs but insists that leaving London was necessary to secure the playing time he so desired. He hinted that his creative instincts were often stifled at Chelsea and Atletico Madrid, where he struggled to play as an improvised winger or isolated striker rather than in his preferred position as a central attacking midfielder.
Reflecting on his resurgence in Saudi Arabia, Felix said: “My time at Chelsea was wonderful; it’s a first-class club. I felt good there. I left simply because I wanted to play often. I did what I had to do. The change was positive; I’m happy; I’m enjoying football. That’s the most important thing.
“I’m happy at Al-Nassr. We’re having a fantastic season. I hope to win the league; we’re close to achieving that. We have eight games left, and we’re in first place. I’ve been playing regularly and enjoying plenty of minutes. I play in my natural position — the same one I excelled in at Benfica — and in a system that suits me very well. I have full confidence in myself, especially when I play in my position.”
The presence of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus has been a decisive factor in Felix’s resurgence, along with the opportunity to reunite with his national teammate Cristiano Ronaldo at the club level. Felix attributes Jesus’ tactical demands to helping him regain confidence.
Reflecting on his new environment, Felix added, “I had already worked with Cristiano quite a few times on the national team, and he’s just the same as always: very professional. I had heard countless stories about coach Jorge Jesus. He’s a different coach, a great coach, and also an excellent person. I’ve learned a lot from him; he has helped me immensely, and I can only thank him.”
Al-Nassr currently leads the Saudi Pro League with 67 points from 26 matches, holding a slim three-point advantage over Al-Hilal as they enter a decisive stretch in April against Al-Najma, Al-Akhdoud, Al-Ettifaq, and Al-Ahli.
After this high-stakes period, Felix and his teammates will need to maintain their elite performance on the final matchday in May, when they will face Al-Qadsiah, Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab, and Damac to secure the title. Felix also hopes to make Portugal’s final World Cup squad.
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