João Félix is scoring again for Portugal, smiling again in Saudi Arabia and already looking back towards Europe. The Al-Nassr forward, who struck in successive international matches, says a return to the Champions League is firmly in his plans.
Portugal form follows Saudi success
- Félix moved to Al-Nassr in July 2025 and has found a more settled role alongside a central striker.
- He helped Al-Nassr win the Saudi league title and was named the competition’s player of the 2025-26 season.
- During Portugal’s latest international camp, he scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Wales, the first match with Jorge Jesus in charge of the national side.
- He followed that contribution with another goal in Portugal’s 2-1 win against Norway on Sunday evening.
The 26-year-old said he is “very happy” at Al-Nassr and continues to enjoy playing football, but he does not see Saudi Arabia as his final destination. Félix expects to return to European football, though he has not fixed a date for the move.
“I will be 27 at the end of the season,” he said. “I am planning to go back to Europe, although it may not happen immediately. I do not know whether it will be at the end of this season or the following one, but I really want to return, play in the Champions League again and compete at that level.”
A role that suits Félix
Once regarded as a player whose huge early promise had not quite translated at elite European clubs, Félix believes experience and tactical clarity have changed his game. His spells with Atlético Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona and Milan did not bring the sustained impact expected after he won the Golden Boy award in 2019.
At Al-Nassr, however, he feels he has been given the platform to play closer to his preferred position: operating just behind the main forward.
“I feel better as a player,” Félix said. “I understand the game and its different moments more clearly. Being 26 is not the same as being 20 or 21. Playing in my position, in a system that highlights what I can offer the team, has helped me. In that way, I can contribute more.”
Ronaldo’s landmark in sight
Félix shares a dressing room with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and with Portugal, and he hopes to play a part in what could become one of football’s most memorable individual milestones.
Ronaldo is closing in on 1,000 senior career goals, and Félix said he would relish providing the decisive assist.
“I have thought about it,” he said. “Whenever I have the ball, I will look to pass it to him. That goal will remain in football history, and being there for it would be unforgettable.”
Yamal is Félix’s Ballon d’Or choice
Félix also gave his view on the Ballon d’Or race, acknowledging the strong seasons produced by Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane. Yet his preference is for former Barcelona team-mate Lamine Yamal.
For Félix, Yamal’s World Cup triumph gives the Barcelona player a major advantage in the contest.
“He is pure football,” Félix said. “Winning the World Cup is crucial when you are in the running for the Ballon d’Or. I watch Barcelona a lot because of him. I love his style and the way he approaches the game. Watching him is enjoyable.”
