“’I loved Chelsea, but needed to play’: Joao Felix thrives at Al-Nassr with 21 goals and eyes World Cup
“’I loved Chelsea, but needed to play’: Joao Felix thrives at Al-Nassr with 21 goals and eyes World Cup Joao Felix has opened up on his decision to leave Chelsea and said a move away from the club 'felt right' as he targeted a World Cup place with Portugal . After a previous loan spell with the club, Felix re-signed for Chelsea in £45m deal from Atletico Madrid in 2024. However, his return to West London was a disappointment, with Felix starting just three Premier League games under former Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan, before a £26. 2m permanent transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr last summer. The move has been a success for Felix, who has scored 21 goals in 37 games across all competitions this season.
Al-Nassr are three points clear of Al-Hilal in the title race as the team target a first Pro League title since 2018-19. Discussing the decision to leave Chelsea, Felix said he was 'happy' at Stamford Bridge but admitted regular football was important in a World Cup year. Having impressed alongside Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo at club level, Felix expects to be a part of Roberto Martinez's plans for this summer's tournament.
“I loved my time there. It’s a big club. But in the end, I had to do what felt right for me," Felix said, as per Sapo.
"And now I’m at Al-Nassr and we’re eight games away from winning the league. Hopefully, we can win the title. “The World Cup spot was also crucial.