joao felix has insisted he has no regrets about leaving Chelsea, framing the move to Al-Nassr as a necessary step to secure regular playing time and return to what he describes as his “natural position. ” Speaking about his change in form, Joao Felix also credited manager Jorge Jesus as a central reason for his development in Saudi Arabia, while describing the Saudi Pro League as competitive.
What happens when Joao Felix prioritizes minutes and role clarity?
Joao Felix described his time at Chelsea positively, calling it a top-level club where he felt good, but he said he left because he wanted to play regularly. In his account, the decision was practical rather than emotional: he “did what [he] had to do, ” and he now feels happier and more fulfilled at Al-Nassr.
A key theme in his comments is role clarity. Joao Felix said he is playing in his natural position at Al-Nassr, in a system that suits him very well, and that the shift has restored his confidence. He also linked consistent minutes to broader ambitions, including staying in contention for Portugal selection, stating that playing for his club brings him closer to being called up.
What if Jorge Jesus’ system is the real inflection point?
Alongside the move itself, Joao Felix pointed to the influence of Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus. He described Jesus as a different kind of manager, a great manager and an excellent person, adding that he has learned a lot and received significant help in regaining confidence.
Joao Felix also referenced the professionalism of Cristiano Ronaldo, noting they had worked together with the national team and that Ronaldo is consistently professional. In Joao Felix’s telling, the combination of a familiar elite standard within the squad and a tactical framework tailored to his strengths has been decisive.
In separate remarks tied to his adaptation, Joao Felix characterized the Saudi league as competitive, reinforcing the idea that his resurgence is taking place in an environment he views as demanding rather than comfortable.
What happens next in the title run-in for Al-Nassr?
Joao Felix said Al-Nassr are having a fantastic season and expressed hope of winning the league, emphasizing that the team is in first place and close to the championship. He also noted there are eight games left, underlining the pressure of the run-in and the need to maintain performance levels.
Al-Nassr lead the Saudi Pro League with 67 points from 26 matches, holding a three-point cushion over Al-Hilal as they enter an April stretch featuring Al-Najma, Al-Akhdoud, Al-Ettifaq, and Al-Ahli. After that, Al-Nassr face a May schedule against Al-Qadsiah, Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab, and Damac as they attempt to secure the title.
For Joao Felix, the closing weeks of the season carry personal stakes as well as team objectives. He has said he hopes to continue enjoying his football at Al-Nassr, while also aiming to be included in Portugal’s final squad for the World Cup.
