Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone provides latest update on future of Joao Felix after Elche win
- Seb Sternik
- 30 December 2022
The future of Joao Felix may be uncertain, though that didn’t stop the Atletico Madrid man from getting on the scoresheet as his side picked up their first La Liga win since October.
Atleti beat bottom-of-the-table Elche 2-0 in a match which featured three red cards - two of those for the relegation favourites.
Second half-goals from Joao Felix and Alvaro Morata sealed the win for the hosts who ended their three-match winless run in the league.
Felix has now scored five goals in his last five outings for the team, though a winter move away from the Spanish capital is still on the cards.
The Portuguese forward, who scored three goals at the World Cup, has been linked with Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United.
Felix's potential departure has been fuelled by a reported rift with manager Simeone. The £113m signing has seen his gametime drastically cut, with the forward playing the full 90 minutes on just two occasions this season.
After the victory over Elche, Simeone was asked about the future of Felix. The Argentine told the media (as quoted by AS): "I keep commenting on the same thing as days ago.
"I'm thinking about the players who are here with me and trying to squeeze them. Bring out the best for the club."
He added: "Griezmann, Joao and Morata combined well, it creates a situation for us to do damage. I'm used to giving everything until the last moment, looking for the best paths for the club and for the team.
"What can happen with Joao does not depend on me. I am used to giving everything until the last moment for the good of the club, after what has to happen happens."
A day before the match, Simeone had admitted that his working relationship with the player was 'good'.
Nevertheless, a January move to the Premier League is being touted, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United all vying for the chance to sign the Portuguese star.
One obstacle which could prevent a deal is Atletico's desire to recoup some of the £113m they splashed on the player in 2019.
Simeone said: "Since I have been at the club I have never left, beyond some differences that exist between people, and we can't agree on everything, and I have looked for what is best for the club until the last day.
"Everyone is giving their maximum. What matters to me is the team and he [Felix] is important to the team. If he gives us what we saw in the World Cup, he will be very important. He has the condition and the talent and the team need his qualities."
Next up for Atletico is a Copa del Rey clash with Oviedo on Wednesday, January 4. A few days later, their attention will turn to a home game with title contenders Barcelona.
