“He’s a money-printing machine” - Agent blasts Joao Felix for not taking charge of his career after move to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr

Portugal international Joao Felix was slammed by FIFA-licensed agent Jen Mendelewitsch for his reported move to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr from Chelsea. The former Atletico Madrid man is said to be on the verge of moving to the Saudi Pro League at the age of 25.

Many would have expected Felix to continue in Europe, given his age and potential. Mendelewitsch put this transfer down to the amount of money that the Portuguese attacker would earn at Al-Nassr and told RMC Sport (via GOAL):

“Joao Felix hasn't played football for a long time. He's a printer. He's a money-printing machine, and with his own approval, since he doesn't rebel. He should have been in charge of his career a long time ago, not allowing people to decide for him and send him to projects he doesn't like. When you know his potential, it's sad. But he's an example of what not to do when you're a young player with potential."

Felix was also linked with a move to his former team, Benfica. However, the finances of the move could have had to do with his decision not to return to Portugal.

“Some people talk about football mercenaries, others talk about victims of the business. In either case, he's the perfect example of the traps many talented young players can fall into. There were rumours that he would return to Benfica. It would have made a little more sense, but I think he didn't want to make that financial sacrifice," Mendelewitsch added.

Overall, Felix made 40 appearances across competitions for Chelsea, bagging 11 goals and two assists.

Cristiano Ronaldo wanted Joao Felix to move to Al-Nassr keeping in mind 2026 World Cup- Reports

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly wished for Joao Felix to join Al-Nassr to ensure that the pair develop a strong understanding with each other ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 25-year-old seems to have understood the importance of sharing the pitch with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner in club football, as per Foot Mercato (via GOAL).

Of course, Felix is already well acquainted with Ronaldo. The pair have played 37 matches across competitions with each other for Portugal, bagging two joint goal contributions in the process.

Now, they will look to contribute to the preparations for the World Cup, an honor Ronaldo has never won. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker has also yet to win the Saudi Pro League trophy with Al-Nassr.

About the author

Rahul has been a European football journalist for Sportskeeda since 2023. A B.B.A. L.L.B. graduate, he captained his university football team and also played for Boca Juniors Football School during his initial years, and also coached his university's girls team. He always aims to translate his tactical awareness, knowledge of the sport and first-hand experience into well-researched articles for his readers.

A follower of the beautiful game since 2014, Rahul is an avid Arsenal and a match-going Bengaluru FC fan. His favorite footballer is Mesut Ozil due to his love for nimble-footed playmakers, while his favorite manager is the legendary Arsene Wenger owing to the Frenchman's attractive style of football.

Rahul, whose favorite FIFA World Cup moment is Lionel Messi lifting the trophy in 2022, has interviewed grassroots expert Tom Byer in the past and gained insight into Japanese football. He also believes Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland can rule the footballing world and take Ronaldo and Messi's place.

When he is not writing, Rahul likes to spend his time playing football, following the Indian Super League and watching other sports. He is also a huge cricket fan and supports Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

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Edited by Rahul Naresh