To play for FC Barcelona, players have to show a special kind of talent or ability to make the cut. The Catalan giants are among the most demanding employers in world football and have been for quite a long time. Players who end up with the privilege to dress in Blaugrana are often those of a high merit.
One of the latest additions to this Barcelona side was Portuguese star Joao Felix. Once a player of great repute with SL Benfica, his stocks have fallen rather poorly since. The record signing of Atletico Madrid’s history, he was unable to play his best under Diego Simeone.
Barcelona’s dreamer
Later on, he was even sent on loan to Premier League side Chelsea. He was dynamic and arguably one of their best performers, but still not exactly at his best. Now, he finds himself at FC Barcelona after revealing his dream of playing for the Catalan giants. Admired by Joan Laporta, he was brought in on the final day of the summer transfer window.
Portuguese Praise
While playing under Xavi Hernandez, Joao Felix is once again enjoying his football. This fine form has also carried over to the international stage with Portugal. As highlighted by SPORT, even his international coach, Roberto Martinez, had nothing but praise for the 23-year-old:
“There are very few players with his talent, with the ability to go inside and outside. He has dribbling skills in one-on-one situations, and he can score… Joao Felix is in another dimension.”
New Felix
He further elaborated that the surrounding environment for Joao Felix has also been crucial. The role and impact that he feels he is playing have managed to get him to play at his best:
“What really matters is his role on the field and in the locker room. You can see that Joao Felix feels important. Now when you watch him play, you can notice a different liveliness.”
Felix, alongside Joao Cancelo, even scored and performed brilliantly in the recent international break. They soon return to action for Barcelona against Athletic Bilbao. With La Liga at stake, Barça will need both Joaos to show their best on a consistent basis.