Joao Felix's departure from Atletico Madrid has sparked a great debate. Fernando Evangelio, a commentator for Deportes COPE, offered his opinion on the Portuguese's failure in the team. According to him, the fault does not lie with Diego Simeone, but with Joao Felix himself.
When Atlético paid €127 million for Joao in 2019, everyone expected him to become a star. The young Portuguese had shown spectacular talent at Benfica, where he dazzled all of Europe. However, since his arrival at Atlético de Madrid, things have not gone as expected.
The words of Fernando Evangelio
Fernando Evangelio explained on COPE's El Partidazo that, although Joao Félix has undeniable quality, his problem seems to be personal. He was unable to adapt to Atlético, Chelsea or Barcelona. Evangelio commented that, after playing for three great teams and not fitting in, the blame cannot always be placed on the coaches.
Atlético de Madrid's style of play under Simeone is very particular, based on tactical discipline and total commitment in every game. From the beginning, Joao Félix showed difficulties in adapting to this system and the relationship with Simeone was complicated, and there were several moments of tension between the two. One of the most memorable was when Joao told the coach to shut up after a goal against Villarreal.
The tension with Simeone
Despite these tensions, expectations for Joao Felix were always high. Everyone expected that, sooner or later, he would adapt to the Atlético de Madrid style. But, according to Evangelio, "several years have passed and it hasn't worked out." The journalist insisted that, when a player fails to perform in three different teams, it is likely that the problem lies with the player, not the coach.
Joao's loan spells at Chelsea and Barcelona did not improve his situation either. In the Premier League, although he showed moments of quality, he failed to make a difference. His performances were inconsistent and he did not leave a significant mark. During his time at Barcelona, under Xavi, he also did not find the prominence that many expected.
Fernando Evangelio was clear: Joao Felix remains a player with incredible potential. However, his inability to adapt to different teams and playing styles casts doubt on his ability to succeed at the highest level. At 23, the Portuguese's future is uncertain.