Joao Felix Aims for World Cup Glory Amid Historic Scoring Surge with Al-Nassr

Portuguese forward Joao Felix has set his sights on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, declaring his ambition to represent Portugal on football’s biggest stage whereas enjoying a remarkable resurgence in form with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

The 26-year-old attacker, who joined Al-Nassr in 2023 after a high-profile transfer from Atletico Madrid, has experienced a career revival under the guidance of head coach Jorge Jesus. Speaking to Spanish sports outlet MARCA, Felix expressed his determination to earn a place in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad for the upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“I aim for to be at the World Cup,” Felix stated unequivocally. “I am achieving historic numbers, the best of my career.” This declaration comes as Felix has transformed his goal-scoring output, contributing 22 goals and 16 assists in 40 appearances for Al-Nassr during the current season, marking his most productive campaign to date with 38 total goal involvements.

Felix’s journey to this point has been marked by both promise and adversity. After bursting onto the scene with Benfica, where he recorded 20 goals and eight assists in 43 appearances during the 2018-19 season, the forward endured a challenging stint at Atletico Madrid following his club-record £113 million transfer in 2019. His time in Madrid yielded considerably more modest returns, with just 10 goals and five assists in his most notable season there.

The turning point arrived with his move to Al-Nassr, where Felix has rediscovered his peak form under Jorge Jesus, who previously managed Benfica and the Portugal national team. Jesus has been instrumental in Felix’s resurgence, publicly praising the forward’s development: “Joao Felix is registering historic numbers, unprecedented in his career. This performance stems from extraordinary individual work combined with exceptional team cohesion.”

Felix’s contributions have been vital to Al-Nassr’s domestic success, helping the Riyadh-based club secure victories in recent matches. His partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo has proven particularly fruitful, with the duo combining for numerous goals in Saudi Pro League fixtures. Notably, Felix scored a hat-trick in Al-Nassr’s season-opening victory over Al Taawoun and has consistently found the back of the net in subsequent league encounters.

The Portuguese international has also maintained his presence with the national team, earning caps in recent UEFA Nations League matches and World Cup qualifiers. Felix played a significant role in Portugal’s commanding victory over Armenia in September 2025, where he scored multiple goals as part of a team effort that honored injured teammate Diogo Jota.

Looking ahead, Felix remains focused on sustaining his current form to strengthen his World Cup candidacy. With the 2026 tournament approaching, the forward understands that consistent performances at the club level will be crucial for national team selection. His ambition to compete at the World Cup reflects both his personal aspirations and Portugal’s continued quest for international glory.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws nearer, Joao Felix’s journey from a promising youngster to a determined World Cup contender continues to unfold. His resurgence in Saudi Arabia has not only revitalized his career but also positioned him as a serious candidate for Portugal’s squad, with the forward determined to make his mark on football’s greatest stage.

Stay tuned for updates on Joao Felix’s progress and Portugal’s World Cup preparations as the tournament approaches.