Performance-wise, it doesn’t seem likely, but the name of Joao Félix continues to be alive on the list of acquisitions for the next sporting project. It’s true that the Portuguese appeared on an initial list of departures that was being discussed between Xavi Hernández and the sporting director of Barça, Deco, and everything indicated that his continuity at the Blaugrana club was practically ruled out. There was disparity of opinions regarding the Portuguese because Xavi felt that another offensive profile should be sought while Deco is convinced that his full potential has not been realized this season. In other words, he had been disappearing from the line-ups despite being decisive in crucial matches and not being given enough continuity.
Joao Félix has been one of the internal debates since last summer. And the soap opera began last August. Ousmane Dembélé left Barça to sign for PSG, and Xavi demanded a quality winger within the economic possibilities of Barça. He even settled for a player who could play inside and had quality in the final pass.
There were days when the coach hinted at the possibility of pursuing the loan of Giovanni Lo Celso and even talked to him. They were tense days when Laporta and Deco insisted on the name of Joao Félix, and the coach even leaked through his trusted people that the Atlético player was not coming because he didn’t want him. And he did come. On loan and in the last days of the transfer window.
Xavi accepted this decision because it was a club signing that came under very favorable economic conditions, although it ended up being more expensive. Like at Chelsea, Joao Félix has not dazzled at Barça. He has shown flashes of brilliance but ended up being diluted, leaving doubts. And Xavi did not want him for the new season, thinking that better options could be found to take a step forward.
Xavi’s departure and the signing of Hansi Flick open up a new scenario. It’s not that the Portuguese thrills the German, but his agent, Jorge Mendes, is pushing hard for him to be given a second chance. Atlético does not want the player, Joao does not want to embark on an adventure in Saudi Arabia, and he also does not want to take a step back to return to Portugal, so his market is already limited. And he is convinced that he can succeed at Barça if given more confidence. Laporta and Deco still believe in him and think it’s a market opportunity and a long-term asset. Things are going to happen, and now it cannot be entirely ruled out that he will stay for another year if Flick finally gives the OK. And it seems he knows the player personally and could agree to a loan.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings