Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva has come forward to support his compatriot Joao Felix, stating that the talented forward is better suited to Barcelona’s style of play than Atletico Madrid. Felix, who initially signed a club-record deal with Atletico Madrid, struggled to make a significant impact under Diego Simeone’s system and was subsequently loaned out to Chelsea before landing at Barcelona.
Speaking about Felix’s journey, Silva emphasized the importance of a player’s style aligning with the philosophy of the club. He drew a parallel with his own experience at Manchester City, where his qualities seamlessly adapted to the team’s style. However, he acknowledged that not every player thrives in every environment, and Felix, in particular, faced challenges at Atletico.
“I arrived at a club like Manchester City to which my qualities adapted, but Joao Félix did not. And it is not a criticism of Atlético. He went to the wrong place. I, perhaps, would not have succeeded at Atlético either. I would have tried to adapt and followed the coach’s idea. But it would not have been ideal for me,” commented Silva on the situation.
Silva highlighted the importance of a player’s happiness and comfort in their playing environment. He expressed satisfaction in witnessing Joao Felix’s positive transformation at Barcelona, asserting that the young forward appears much stronger than he did a few years ago.
“Now I am happy because I see him happy in Barcelona and in an environment more in line with his game. He is much stronger than a few years ago,” added Silva, indicating that Felix has found a more conducive setting to showcase his skills.
Joao Felix’s move to Atletico Madrid in 2019 was met with high expectations, given the club’s significant investment in securing his services. However, adapting to Simeone’s pragmatic and defensive style proved challenging for the young forward known for his flair and attacking prowess. A loan spell at Chelsea provided a change of scenery, but it was his subsequent move to Barcelona that seems to have revitalized Felix’s career.
The shift to Barcelona, under the management of Xavi Hernandez, has seen Felix rediscover his form and joy on the pitch. The attacking philosophy and emphasis on possession play at Barcelona align more closely with Joao Felix’s natural style, allowing him to express his creativity and offensive capabilities.
While Felix’s loan stint at Barcelona has been promising, the question of a permanent move remains uncertain. Atletico Madrid is expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for the talented forward, which could pose a financial challenge for Barcelona. The negotiations for a permanent transfer will likely unfold in the coming months, and fans await the resolution of Felix’s future at the Camp Nou.
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