Joao Felix (foto: Getty Images)
Joao Felix apologized to Atletico Madrid teammates, expressing his desire to play and earn a second chance after a tumultuous period and past controversies.
Throughout history, many footballers have been labeled as huge disappointments, and for Atletico Madrid, the biggest flop has been Joao Felix. The Portuguese player, bought for €130 million, failed to deliver and even criticized the club he joined. However, he has now apologized publicly and asked for forgiveness from his teammates.
Joao Felix is considered one of the biggest flops in modern football. Atletico Madrid spent a staggering €130 million for his services in the summer of 2019. Five years later, he still hasn't established himself in the team from the Spanish capital.
Felix had some notable performances in the red-and-white jersey, but they were rare. At one point, Diego Simeone sidelined him, leading to a loan to Chelsea, where the Blues opted not to activate the purchase clause. Last season, Felix was again out of favor, leading to a loan to Barcelona, where he performed decently.
He even scored a goal against Atletico and made some comments expressing his love for Barcelona, which angered Atletico fans. "Fans don't know what happened in the club. I understand them, but they shouldn't see me as a bad guy," said Felix after receiving numerous criticisms and insults.
Barcelona couldn't afford to buy him outright at the end of last season, so Felix returned to Atletico Madrid, where he was met with the expected hostility.
The club initially kept him away from the main squad during training camp. However, a few days later, coach Simeone invited him to train with the team. Felix eventually apologized for his comments about Atletico and his behavior while wearing the Barcelona shirt. He stood before the team and asked for forgiveness.
Joao Felix apologized to his Atletico Madrid teammates, expressing his desire to play and prove he deserves a second chance. Spanish media report that there's a possibility he might stay with the club after all.
The final decision will be made by Diego Simeone. While Felix has the talent, he's fallen out of favor with Atletico fans, and it will take time to mend that relationship. The club expected much more from a player they paid €130 million for, making it unsurprising that they are willing to let him go for just €30 million this summer.
Despite everything, Felix hopes to get a chance to prove himself. He now realizes that he can't afford to be picky and that Atletico is probably the biggest club he can play for at this point.
For Atletico, Felix has scored 34 goals and provided 18 assists in 131 appearances. It remains to be seen whether he will get a chance in the new season or if the club will decide to sell him before the transfer window closes. Time is ticking...