Cristiano Ronaldo’s statement praising João Félix’s decision to join Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia over returning to the Portuguese league or fulfilling Flamengo’s interest triggered a wave of criticism in Portugal. Made during an interview after a friendly match against Rio Ave on August 7, 2025, at the Algarve Stadium, Ronaldo’s comment highlighted the Saudi league’s competitiveness. The remark was poorly received by Portuguese fans and media, who deemed it disrespectful to their domestic league. The controversy was amplified by Flamengo’s prior interest in Félix, a long-standing dream of the Brazilian club. This incident underscores Ronaldo’s influence in global football and reignites debates about the relevance of emerging leagues.
The backlash stemmed from the context of João Félix’s transfer. The 25-year-old forward, once a standout at Benfica in 2018/19, opted for a lucrative deal with Al Nassr instead of returning to his former club. Ronaldo, reportedly a key influence, even provided his private jet to facilitate Félix’s travel from London to Salzburg for Al Nassr’s pre-season. Félix’s choice to leave European football, after inconsistent stints at Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, and Milan, raised questions about his career trajectory.
Key points of the controversy:
Ronaldo claimed the Saudi league surpasses Portugal’s in competitiveness.
The statement was seen as devaluing Portuguese football.
Flamengo’s interest in Félix was noted but unfulfilled.
Financial incentives and Ronaldo’s influence drove Félix’s decision.
Ronaldo’s words not only sparked debate about Félix’s future but also highlighted his sway in the sport. The camaraderie between the two players, evident in their time with the Portuguese national team, played a role in Félix’s decision.
Backlash in Portugal
The reaction in Portugal was swift and largely negative. Benfica fans, in particular, voiced outrage on social media, with some labeling Ronaldo’s comment “shameful” for undermining the Primeira Liga. Portuguese media criticized the comparison as unnecessary, emphasizing that their league remains a breeding ground for talents like Félix. The departure of young stars to emerging markets like Saudi Arabia fueled debates about whether such moves hinder career growth.
Analysts noted that while the Primeira Liga lacks the financial clout of top European leagues, it remains a vital platform for young players. Ronaldo’s remarks were seen as dismissive of this legacy. However, some Saudi media and Al Nassr fans defended Ronaldo, arguing he was promoting the Saudi Pro League, where he has played since 2023.
Factors fueling the controversy:
Ronaldo’s status as Portugal’s football icon.
The Primeira Liga’s national pride despite limited funds.
High expectations for Félix’s potential return to Benfica.
The defense from Saudi supporters highlighted Ronaldo’s role in elevating the profile of Al Nassr, which has attracted players like Otávio, João Cancelo, and Rúben Neves.
Flamengo’s interest in João Félix
Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs, was drawn into the controversy due to its pursuit of João Félix earlier in 2025. The club sought a loan deal with an option to buy from Chelsea, as confirmed by Flamengo’s director José Boto in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. However, Félix prioritized staying in Europe or exploring other options, ultimately choosing Al Nassr. In 2021, Félix had expressed a desire to experience a packed Maracanã, praising Flamengo’s red-and-black colors, which fueled speculation about a future move.
Ronaldo’s comment, suggesting Saudi Arabia was a better choice than Portugal, was interpreted by some Brazilian fans as a slight against South American football, though Portugal bore the brunt of the criticism. Flamengo supporters were divided, with some understanding Félix’s financial motivations and others disappointed by the missed opportunity.
Details of Flamengo’s interest:
Loan negotiations with Chelsea in May 2025.
Félix’s expressed interest in playing at the Maracanã.
Al Nassr’s offer outbid other proposals.
Boto noted Félix’s preference to stay in Europe.
The unfulfilled dream of signing Félix left Flamengo fans reflecting on what could have been a marquee addition to their squad.
¡BANCÓ A SU COMPAÑERO! 🤝🇵🇹⚽️ Cristiano Ronaldo se refirió a la decisión de João Félix de jugar en Al Nassr. ¿Opiniones? 🤔📸 CR7 pic.twitter.com/kOO3Yd3B78— DSPORTS (@DSports) August 8, 2025
Ronaldo’s role in the transfer
Cristiano Ronaldo played a pivotal role in João Félix’s move to Al Nassr. Beyond offering his private jet, Ronaldo personally reassured Félix that joining the Saudi league would not jeopardize his spot in Portugal’s national team, provided he maintained high performance. Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond the pitch, as he has been actively involved in Al Nassr’s recruitment strategy since signing in 2023. His presence has made the club a magnet for Portuguese talent, bolstered by the arrival of coach Jorge Jesus.
The bond between Ronaldo and Félix, strengthened by their shared success in the 2025 UEFA Nations League, facilitated the transfer. Ronaldo’s commitment to Al Nassr, with a contract until 2027, underscores his role in shaping the club’s ambitions.
Aspects of Ronaldo’s influence:
Direct outreach to convince Félix of the move.
Logistical support with private jet travel.
Assurance of continued national team selection.
Strategic involvement in Al Nassr’s recruitment.
This dynamic highlights Ronaldo’s status as both a player and a decision-maker in Saudi football.
Saudi league’s competitiveness
Ronaldo’s claim about the Saudi Pro League’s competitiveness sparked discussions about its technical level. He pointed to significant investments in infrastructure and high-profile signings as evidence of growth, citing Al Nassr’s performances in the Club World Cup. Critics in Portugal, however, argue that the league lags behind Europe’s top competitions. The trend of young players like Félix choosing Saudi Arabia raises questions about financial motivations versus sporting ambition.
Players like Gabri Veiga, who returned to FC Porto after a stint at Al-Ahli, suggest that Saudi experience doesn’t preclude a European comeback. The league’s appeal, driven by stars like Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema, continues to grow, but its long-term impact on young talents remains under scrutiny.
Features of the Saudi league:
Billions invested in signings since 2022.
Presence of global stars like Ronaldo and Neymar.
Improved performances in international competitions.
Criticism for lacking technical tradition.
Félix’s move, under Jorge Jesus’s guidance, could test the league’s ability to nurture young talent while maintaining its financial allure.
João Félix’s future at Al Nassr
João Félix’s transfer to Al Nassr marks a fresh start for the forward, who has struggled for consistency since leaving Benfica in 2019. After stints at Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, and Milan, Félix aims to find stability and prominence in Saudi Arabia. Jorge Jesus’s coaching, known for maximizing attacking players, could be a turning point. Félix debuted in a friendly against Toulouse on July 30, 2025, showing early chemistry with Ronaldo.
The Saudi season kicks off on August 19 with Al Nassr facing Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup, where Félix is expected to contribute significantly. His adaptation will be closely watched, especially amid the controversy sparked by Ronaldo’s remarks.
Expectations for Félix at Al Nassr:
Adapting to Jorge Jesus’s tactical system.
Forming a potent partnership with Ronaldo.
Regaining confidence after inconsistent spells.
Potential for a future European return.
Félix’s choice of an emerging market over traditional clubs like Benfica or Flamengo reflects a growing trend among young players prioritizing financial security, even if temporarily stepping away from Europe’s elite leagues.
