Cristiano Ronaldo rejects claims of ‘stealing’ Joao Felix
Cristiano Ronaldo has rejected claims that he helped Al-Nassr "steal" Joao Felix from Benfica.
The Portuguese striker, now entering his third season in the Saudi Pro League, emphasized that the decision to move to Riyadh was entirely Felix’s own, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.
The 25-year-old joined Al-Nassr this summer from Chelsea, after spending the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan. Although he had offers from several clubs — including a possible return to Benfica — Felix chose to continue his career in the Middle East.
“Calling it a theft is wrong; no one ever stole anything from Benfica,” said Ronaldo.
“Joao is very talented and will help us a lot in the Saudi league, which is highly competitive. I think it was a better opportunity for him than playing in Portugal, considering the number of stars here. Did I call him to convince him? I don’t do that — that’s not my job.”
Ronaldo and Felix also played together in a recent preseason friendly where Al-Nassr defeated Rio Ave 4–0, with CR7 scoring a hat-trick. Their team is now preparing for the start of the 2025–26 Saudi League season.
