He won the Golden Boy trophy back in 2019, Atletico Madrid paid then-astronomical (for their standards) 120,000,000 euros to sign him from Benfica. He was a star in the making and the sky imposed as the only limit for Joao Felix. But his rise came to a halt at a much lower altitude.Ever since signing with Los Colchoneros, the quick-footed Portuguese failed to connect with the alpha and the omega of the Madridian club, Diego Simeone and had to leave on several loans – just to keep those playing minutes on a level high enough to be called up for the national team in times of major international competitions. The latest loans being at Chelsea and Barcelona.And now, the new head coach of the Catalan giants, Hansi Flick, has delivered his verdict on Felix following the Portuguese’s difficult season on loan at the Camp Nou.🚨🥇| JUST IN: Flick believes João Felix can contribute to the team and is willing to bet on the Portuguese. Barça however isn’t planning to buy him, a loan option will be explored once again. [@Luis_F_Rojo] #fcblive 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/fDvq8MqTVG— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) June 1, 2024 Felix fulfilled his dream last season when he joined Barcelona on loan for the 2023-24 campaign. However, the 24-year-old was unable to recapture the electric form that once made him regarded as one of European football’s brightest prospects.Felix made 24 starts in all competitions for the Blaugrana, netting 10 goals. That included home and away strikes against parent club Atletico Madrid. Barca’s incoming manager faced the same question upon their arrival: try to push for another season of Felix or allow him to return to the capital?It would seem that Flick is of the former mindset. According to Marca, the German has told officials that he is keen for the forward to return to Barcelona on loan for another season.Flick is of the belief that Felix would be a valuable member of his squad. And considering he’s only two years removed from being Atleti’s Player of the Year, it seems wise to push for an extension in an attempt to unlock to real Felix.##NAJAVA_MECA_8138492##Sorting out Felix’s future is just one item on a long list of to-dos for Flick, who replaced Xavi last month. The club’s financial position remains troublesome – to the extent that Barcelona cannot even register their new head coach or his staff – and any good offers for members of his squad will have to be listened to. Indeed, winger Raphinha is set to be the subject of a 100,000,000 euros offer from a ‘powerful’ team from Saudi Arabia, according to reports.Looking back at Felix’s potential at the time he showed up at the biggest stage – this all, unfortunately, seems like such a waste. Hopefully, the 24-year-old will be able to clear up his trajectory and reach success that could level up with his talent.
