Exclusive: Benfica Plan Contingency for João Félix if Al-Nassr Stint Falters

Benfica will swoop for Joao Felix if the former Chelsea attacker, who joined Al-Nassr earlier this summer, fails to settle in Saudi Arabia, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal. 

Despite being viewed as one of the most naturally gifted footballers in Europe, Felix’s career has stalled since leaving the Lisbon based giants for Atletico Madrid in 2019.

Amid concerns about his focus and work ethic, the Portugal international was loaned to Stamford Bridge four years later before returning on a permanent basis at the beginning of last season. 

Having failed to command a regular place in Enzo Maresca’s starting eleven, Felix was subsequently loaned to AC Milan before being declared surplus to requirements by the reigning Europa Conference League champions.

Although he is known to be excited by the prospect of linking up with compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo in the Middle East, sources have told SportsBoom that Felix still harbours ambitions of winning major prizes in Europe.

His preference, after relations with Atleti head coach Diego Simeone soured, would be a return to the Estádio da Luz, should the switch to Al-Nassr prove another false start.

Can Felix Prove a Hit in Saudi?

Despite initially hitting the ground running in the Spanish capital, being named the Rojiblancos Player of the Season in 2022, Felix eventually failed to live up to his billing after joining them for a reported £113m. 

Before crossing the border, he won the Primeira Liga title whilst still at Benfica and this remains, despite infrequent flashes of brilliance, the most consistently successful spell of his career.

Felix made only 28 domestic league appearances for Chelsea across his two spells in west London, scoring five goals.

After also struggling to make an impact at the San Siro, officials at Al-Nassr were nevertheless convinced enough of his prowess to pay nearly £27m for Felix’s services earlier this summer.

He has been capped 45 times by his country, winning the Nations League twice and also La Liga whilst at Atleti.