Joao Felix's move to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr has sparked criticism from his former Atletico Madrid team-mate Saul Niguez, who claims that the Portuguese forward has failed to maximise his potential due to a lack of hard work. Saul insists talent is "worthless" without the work ethic to back it up, and has revealed that "many of us tried to help" Felix during his turbulent years in Europe.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Earlier this week, Felix completed his transfer to Al-Nassr from Chelsea in a deal worth up to €50 million, ending a rocky period in European football. The 25-year-old struggled for form during loan spells at Chelsea and Barcelona following a €126 million (£109m) move to Atletico Madrid in 2019 from Benfica. Felix joined Chelsea permanently last summer but soon fell out of favour under Enzo Maresca, and after a forgettable loan stint at AC Milan, he has now left Europe for a new challenge in Saudi Arabia. His decision to join Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League has drawn major scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, with Saul blasting the forward for his lack of hard work.

WHAT SAUL SAID

Speaking on El Partidazo de Cope, Saul said: "Football is a team game. He has all the qualities to be an incredible player, but no matter how good you are, if you don't work hard, it's worthless. I heard a quote from Paco Jemez that said talent without hard work is nothing... Many of us have tried to help Joao, but if one doesn't want to..."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Once hailed as one of Europe’s most exciting talents, Felix has failed to live up to the hype. His inconsistency and nomadic club career have raised concerns about his motivation and long-term ambitions. A move to Saudi Arabia at just 25 has further fuelled the debate over young stars chasing money over legacy.

WHAT NEXT FOR FELIX?

Felix has already made his friendly debut for Al-Nassr, featuring alongside Ronaldo against Toulouse. Whether the move rejuvenates his career or accelerates his decline remains to be seen. The 25-year-old faces growing pressure to prove that his talent still holds value on the pitch.(GOAL)