RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — August 8, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly dismissed speculation that he played a role in persuading fellow Portugal international João Félix to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.
Speaking after a pre-season training session in Riyadh, Ronaldo addressed growing rumors linking him to Félix’s high-profile summer transfer from Atlético Madrid. “No one stole anything from Benfica,” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. “Calling him to convince him? I don’t do that. I don’t pick up the phone.”
Félix, 25, was the subject of multiple transfer discussions this summer following a loan spell at AC Milan and a previous stint with Chelsea. While a potential return to his boyhood club Benfica was on the table, the forward ultimately signed a two-year deal with Al-Nassr reportedly worth €30 million plus add-ons.
Credible sources including The National, FootballTransfers.com, and Sportskeeda confirm that negotiations with Benfica took place before Félix opted for the Saudi club, where he will now play alongside Ronaldo.
The Portugal captain’s remarks were a direct rebuttal to claims circulated by several fan blogs and unverified outlets that he had personally intervened to influence Félix’s decision. One such report alleged that Ronaldo used the phrase “national team” to sway Félix a narrative the Al-Nassr forward unequivocally denied.
Ronaldo emphasized his focus remains strictly on football. “I train, I play, and that’s it,” he stated.
João Félix is expected to make his debut for Al-Nassr later this month as the team kicks off its Saudi Pro League campaign.