Returning from his loan at Chelsea, Joao Félix (23) was whistled and humiliated by Atletico Madrid supporters on Monday when they welcomed Granada (3-1, first day of La Liga).
Joao Felix (23) found Atletico Madrid in a very hostile atmosphere on Monday night. After returning from his six-month loan spell at Chelsea between January and June, the Portuguese was attacked by his club’s fans when they welcomed Granada (3-1), counting on the first day of La Liga. After being placed on the bench, the Portuguese received heavy whistles from the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano when his face appeared on the billboards.
His declaration of his love for Barcelona made Atlético fans jump
The hatred of the Atlético fans became more violent after the final whistle. While on the lawn cleaning up with the players who didn’t play, he was the target of insults from the more radical fringes of the fans still on the field. These call-ups finally sent all of the substitutes into the locker room.
Why this hate? Atletico fans have not forgotten the recent statements made by Joao Felix, who has not convinced him since his signing for €130m in 2019. The midfielder reiterated that he hopes to continue at Chelsea before until his loan ends. Recently, his declaration of his love for Barcelona did not pass at all. “I would love to play for Barcelona,” he said in an interview. “It has always been my dream since I was a kid. It has always been my first choice and I would love to join Barcelona.” While on loan to London, he also criticized the game of Atlético coach Diego Simeone, who still belongs to him.
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Joao Felix’s situation seems to embarrass everyone: the club, the player and the fans. Atlético unsuccessfully tried to find a way out for his attacker. The former Benfica player was retained in pre-season without playing a single minute. Lacking a solution, Diego Simeone keeps him in the group as he has landed a lot in the attacking hierarchy (behind Griezmann, Morata, Memphis and Correa).
“If he’s better than his teammates, he’ll play.”
When asked on the subject, Diego Simeone defended the Portuguese by stressing that he could have his chance if he stayed. He said, “The league has started, he’s with us, he knows what we need, what we want and we’re asking. He’s in competition with Memphis, Griezmann, Morata and Correa and if he’s better than them he’ll play.”
