Ronaldo Refutes Claims of Influencing Felix’s Al-Nassr Transfer

Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has refuted allegations that he persuaded Joao Felix to join Al-Nassr or interfered with a potential transfer to Benfica.

Fellow Portuguese national Felix recently joined Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, arriving from Chelsea on a two-year agreement after a stint with AC Milan.

It was initially rumored that Felix might return to his former club, Benfica; however, the arrangement never came to fruition.

Felix transferred from Benfica to Atletico Madrid in 2019, at age 19. Subsequently, he was loaned to Chelsea for the 2022-2023 season and then to Barcelona the following season. Later, in August 2024, he finalized an agreement with Chelsea.

Following a hat-trick in a 4-0 pre-season victory against Rio Ave, Cristiano Ronaldo addressed the press, dismissing any claims that he had influenced Felix’s move to Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo stated, “Accusations of stealing are unfounded; no one took anything from Benfica. Joao is a very talented player, and he will significantly benefit us in the competitive Saudi league. The league is highly competitive, which you might not realize if you haven’t experienced it firsthand, but we witnessed its quality at the Club World Cup.”

He further commented, “I believe that playing in Saudi Arabia was a more advantageous choice for Félix than remaining in the Portuguese league, especially considering the numerous stars now playing in Saudi Arabia.

“Despite the absence of Champions League participation, his choice was very strategic. Did I call to persuade him? That’s not my approach. It’s not my responsibility. These claims originated with you; my focus remains on training and playing.”

Al-Nassr is scheduled to play Almeria in a pre-season match on Sunday at Estadio Mediterraneo.