Cristiano Ronaldo has come to the defense of his Portugal teammate Joao Felix, who has faced criticism after leaving Chelsea for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr this summer.
The 25-year-old forward completed a £43.7 million switch following a turbulent spell in Europe, where he struggled to find consistency across stints at Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, AC Milan, and Chelsea.
His decision to join Ronaldo in Riyadh has sparked debate among fans and pundits who believe he should have continued fighting for success in Europe.
Ronaldo did not hold back when responding to criticism of Felix’s transfer, particularly from Portuguese podcast Chuveirinho, which questioned the player’s career choice.
“Idiots don’t understand anything about football, yet they still give their opinions,” Ronaldo wrote in a blunt Instagram post, adding crying emojis.
Although the message was later deleted, it stirred wide reaction online.
The podcast’s account even asked whether they “deserved” the sharp rebuke, noting they had praised Ronaldo in the past.
Once hailed as one of Europe’s brightest attacking prospects, Felix failed to settle despite his talent.
He first joined Chelsea on loan two years ago, returned permanently last summer, but was soon sent out again this time to AC Milan.
Neither stint provided the breakthrough he needed, and with options running out, Felix decided to move to Saudi Arabia.
So far, he has impressed in his early games at Al Nassr and seems more comfortable alongside Ronaldo.
Chelsea’s willingness to offload Felix was partly influenced by their rising young stars.
Cole Palmer, 22, and Estevao Willian, 18, have stepped up under new boss Enzo Maresca.
Palmer has been rotated between the wing and attacking midfield, while Estevao—signed from Palmeiras in August has already started two matches.
He replaced Palmer at short notice in the 5-1 win over West Ham after a pre-match injury, and also featured in the 2-0 victory against Fulham.
