Saudi Gazette report

LISBON — Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed suggestions he played a role in persuading compatriot João Félix to join Al Nassr, stressing that recruiting players is not part of his job.

Speaking after Al Nassr’s 4-0 friendly win over Rio Ave on Thursday, the Portuguese star said: “I don’t do that, I don’t talk on the phone. That’s not my job. You said it, but my job is to train and play.”

On Félix’s arrival from Chelsea, Ronaldo rejected speculation of any wrongdoing in the move from Benfica, adding: “Stealing is a bad word. Nobody stole anything from Benfica. Everyone knows João, he’s very talented and I believe he’ll help us a lot in the Saudi league.”

The Al Nassr captain also praised the league’s competitiveness, citing the level seen at the FIFA Club World Cup: “The Saudi Pro League is very competitive. You don’t know — you’re far from the pitch — but we’ve seen it.”

Ronaldo said moving to Saudi Arabia was a smarter career step for Félix than remaining in the Portuguese league.

“It was a better choice than playing in Portugal. Look at the number of stars in Saudi. Even without the Champions League, it was a very wise decision,” he said.

Turning to Al Nassr’s preparations, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner emphasized the importance of preseason fitness: “The most important thing is fatigue, good training, and getting back to full fitness. We want to be ready for our first official match on the 19th in Hong Kong in the Saudi Super Cup semi-final against Al Ittihad.”

Ronaldo, who found the net against Rio Ave, added: “Scoring goals is always good. I’m happy, and preseason is going well.”

On the start of the Portuguese league season, he concluded: “I hope it’s competitive. I always wish the best, and I hope Sporting Lisbon can win the title again.”