Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez rejects signing Joao Felix due to defensive shortcomings
- Rob Fleming
- 17 August 2023
Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez has expressed his reluctance to include Joao Felix in his team due to the player's defensive shortcomings.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has reportedly expressed his reservations about bringing Joao Felix into his squad, citing concerns about the player's defensive capabilities.
Journalist Pol Ballus, reporting through The Athletic, revealed Xavi's apprehension towards Felix's inclusion.
Having spent the previous season on loan with Premier League giants Chelsea, Felix made it evident that he no longer aspired to don the jersey of Atletico Madrid. Eager for more playing time, the 23-year-old forward sought alternatives, and his attention turned towards Barcelona.
Publicly expressing his admiration for the Catalan club, Felix, through his representative Jorge Mendes, has been actively pursuing a transfer to Catalan giants.
Despite possessing a market value of €50 million, his recent encounter with Atletico, while on the bench in the recent 3-1 win over Granada, resulted in vehement boos from fans, underscoring the irreparable rift between him and the club.
Xavi's tactical philosophy demands unwavering commitment across all areas of the field, as exemplified by Alejandro Balde, a defender integral to the team's offensive moves. This demands heightened awareness from players in adjacent positions when the defence is exposed.
Regrettably, Felix falls short in meeting these criteria. According to Ballus, despite the 23-year-old forward's self-offering to Barcelona, the coaching staff find his style of play not entirely compatible.
Beyond financial considerations, which could significantly influence Barcelona's decision on the Portuguese forward, it's evident that Felix has yet to win Xavi's favour. His inability to contribute defensively stands out as a prominent impediment.
Simultaneously, a significant internal discord emerges within the management, with Deco being a fervent supporter of Felix's inclusion. Club president Joan Laporta reportedly holds an affinity for the player, but Xavi remains unconvinced. The departure of Ousmane Dembele and the uncertain status of Ansu Fati might push Xavi towards a compromise, yet his reservations persist.
While Felix has declined offers from Saudi Arabia, his aspirations of joining Barcelona hinge on Xavi's verdict. The young player's future remains in limbo as the coach deliberates on his suitability for the squad.
