“’I loved Chelsea, but needed to play’: Joao Felix thrives at Al-Nassr with 21 goals and eyes World Cup | OneFootball

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 threePremier 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 sideAl-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 perSapo.

"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. World Cups come around every four years and I wasn't playing, but I still enjoyed my time at Chelsea”.