Cristiano Ronaldo Defends Joao Felix After Saudi Move as Al-Nassr Shine
Cristiano Ronaldo has never been shy about speaking his mind – and this week, the Al-Nassr superstar was once again in the headlines for doing just that. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner jumped to the defence of his Portugal team-mate Joao Felix, who has faced heavy criticism for leaving European football to join Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo, who has been a vocal ambassador for Saudi football since his own sensational move in 2022, called out what he described as “idiots” questioning Felix’s decision to swap Chelsea and Barcelona for Riyadh. And judging by Al-Nassr’s perfect start to the new season, Ronaldo might just have a point.
Cristiano Ronaldo Hits Out at ‘Idiots’ Over Joao Felix Move
It all started with comments made on Chuveirinho, a popular Portuguese football podcast, where pundits mocked Felix for heading to Saudi Arabia at the age of 26. The panel suggested the forward was “throwing away his career” by leaving Europe, implying that he could have fought for a place back in one of Europe’s elite teams.
Ronaldo, never one to let criticism of his team-mates slide, fired back in style. Taking to Instagram, the Al-Nassr captain wrote:
“Idiots don’t understand anything about football, yet they still give their opinions.”
The post, which included crying emojis for emphasis, was later deleted – but not before it went viral among Portuguese football fans. The message was clear: Ronaldo wasn’t just defending Felix, he was defending the growing reputation of Saudi football.
Joao Felix Makes Saudi Move After European Struggles
Joao Felix Al-Nassr 2025-26
Felix’s decision to leave European football came after a turbulent few years in which the former Benfica prodigy never quite found a permanent home.
Atletico Madrid paid a record €126 million fee for him in 2019, but he struggled to adapt to Diego Simeone’s rigid tactical demands. Loan spells followed – first at Chelsea, then at Barcelona, and later AC Milan – but while he showed flashes of brilliance, he never fully established himself as the player many thought would be Cristiano Ronaldo’s natural heir for Portugal.
So, when Al-Nassr came calling with a £26 million permanent deal, Felix surprised some by saying yes.
“It was Cristiano who first spoke to me about coming here,” Felix admitted after his signing was confirmed. “When he talked to me, I felt a wonderful moment, a beautiful feeling – that really helped convince me.”
Ronaldo’s Influence and His Mission to Elevate Saudi Football
Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr was more than just a transfer – it was a statement. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia in January 2023, he has been the face of the league’s rapid rise, encouraging other stars to follow in his footsteps.
Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Neymar, and Sadio Mané are among those who have since joined the Saudi Pro League, but Ronaldo’s backing of Felix feels particularly significant. This isn’t just a case of attracting ageing stars looking for one last payday – Felix is still in his prime and was one of the brightest talents in Europe just a few years ago.
By defending Felix so passionately, Ronaldo is effectively saying that the Saudi league can now be considered a legitimate destination for top-level players in their mid-20s – not just a retirement home.
Al-Nassr and Ronaldo Maintain Perfect Start
On the pitch, things couldn’t be going much better for Al-Nassr. They have started the new campaign with a flawless record, sweeping aside opponents both domestically and in continental competition.
Ronaldo has continued to find the net with machine-like regularity, while Felix’s arrival has given the team another creative spark. The chemistry between the two Portuguese stars is already evident, with Felix dropping into pockets of space and Ronaldo finishing off moves with the ruthless efficiency that has defined his career.
Fans in Riyadh are daring to dream of a clean sweep this season: the league title, the domestic cup, and a strong run in the AFC Champions League.
European Stars Continue to Move to Saudi Pro League
Whether critics like it or not, the Saudi Pro League is here to stay. The country’s investment in football has been nothing short of staggering, and with every passing transfer window, more players in their prime are making the move.
Felix’s transfer – and Ronaldo’s public backing – could open the door for other young stars who might previously have hesitated. After all, if a player once dubbed “the next Ronaldo” is willing to make the leap, others might follow.
Ronaldo and Felix Ready to Silence Doubters
For now, Ronaldo’s message is clear: he believes in what Al-Nassr are building and he wants his team-mate to feel supported.
“The project here is about winning and improving the level of football,” Ronaldo said in a recent interview. “Joao has quality, and together we can do something special.”
If their early-season form is anything to go by, that “something special” might involve more silverware – and more viral moments – before the campaign is over.
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