How Cristiano Ronaldo influenced Joao Felix's decision to join Al-Nassr from Chelsea: Revealed

The Portugese forward was on loan at AC Milan for second half of last season

Joao Felix, 25, will join fellow Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr for an initial £26 million ($35 million) deal. Additionally, Foot Mercato claim that the 40-year-old used a “powerful argument: the national team” to calm any worries the former Atletico Madrid player had about joining the Saudi Pro League outfit.

According to reports, Ronaldo emphasised that the two countrymen would be able to gain a better understanding of each other on the field during 40–50 games next season by playing together at Al-Nassr, which will help them in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo was key in pushing Felix to join Al-Nassr

“This playing together factor could be ‘decisive’ in manager Roberto Martinez’s final selection for the Portuguese national team,” the story adds.

Joao Felix, who struggled for playing time at Chelsea after his £45 million ($60.5 million) move from Atletico in 2024, is believed to have recognised the significance of this agreement and “undoubtedly” played a major factor in his choice to join Al-Nassr. Felix spent the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan.

The former Benfica star failed to make an impression during his loan stint in Italy, which resulted in him returning to the north Londoners. However, Chelsea didn’t see Felix as part of their plan for the upcoming season and put him up for sale despite signing him the previous campaign.

What’s next for Joao Felix and Al Nassr?

Felix, a former Barcelona loanee, is anticipated to join the Saudi club for preseason practice in Austria in the next days. Felix will likely sign a two-year contract with Ronaldo’s team on a yearly wage of €10 million.

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