'I did what I had to do' - Joao Felix insists he has no regrets over Chelsea exit after being restored to 'natural position' at Al-Nassr

Rebirth in the desert

Since

No regrets over London departure

Felix remains complimentary of his former employers but is adamant that leaving London was necessary to secure the consistent playing time he craved. He suggested that his creative instincts were often stifled at Chelsea and Atletico Madrid, where he frequently struggled as a makeshift winger or isolated striker rather than playing in his preferred central attacking midfield role.

Reflecting on his resurgence in Saudi Arabia, Felix stated: "My time at Chelsea was lovely; it is a top club. I felt good there. I just moved because I wanted to play often. I did what I had to do. The move was positive; I'm happy; I'm enjoying football. That's the most important thing.

"I'm happy at Al-Nassr. We are having a fantastic season. I hope to win the league; we are close to that. We have eight games left, and we are in first place. I've been playing regularly and getting plenty of minutes. I'm playing in my natural position - the one where I stood out at Benfica - and in a system that suits me very well. I have complete confidence in myself, especially when playing in my position."

The Jorge Jesus factor

The presence of Portuguese manager Jesus has been a deciding factor in Felix’s resurgence, alongside the opportunity to unite with national team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo at club level. Felix credit’s Jesus’ tactical demands for helping him regain confidence.

Reflecting on his new environment, Felix added: "I'd already worked with Cristiano quite a few times with the national team, and he's just the same - always very professional. I'd heard countless stories about manager Jorge Jesus. He's a different kind of manager, a great manager and an excellent person, too. I've learned a lot from him; he's helped me a great deal and I can only thank him."

The final push for silverware

Al-Nassr currently lead the Saudi Pro League with 67 points from 26 matches, holding a narrow three-point cushion over Al-Hilal as they enter a defining April run against Al-Najma, Al-Akhdoud, Al-Ettifaq, and Al-Ahli. Following this high-stakes period, Felix and his team-mates must maintain their elite output through a final May schedule against Al-Qadsiah, Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab, and Damac to secure the title. Felix will also be hoping to make Portugal's final squad for the World Cup.