Joao Félix’s Bid for Paris: A Challenge for Xavi

With the clash against PSG looming, Joao Félix aims to complicate Xavi’s selection dilemma Despite his inconsistent presence in the team this season, Joao Félix is more motivated than ever With just a few days left until a match that could not only shape Barcelona’s season but also its immediate future, the quarter-final tie against PSG presents the perfect opportunity to prove that this team is ready to compete with anyone. Xavi knows it, and so do his players, who are determined to make it tough for the coach when it comes to choosing the starting eleven in Paris.

One of those players, Joao Félix, has had a somewhat irregular season, experiencing fluctuations in both playing time and performance. Nevertheless, the Portuguese forward refuses to give up. He understands that earning the right for Barcelona to make an effort for him and to continue wearing the blaugrana colors depends not only on his performance on the pitch but also off it.

Special Motivation In this regard, regardless of whether he plays more or less, the player is not throwing in the towel and is willing to show Xavi that he deserves more prominence. This was evident when, coming off the bench, he provided the assist that secured three points against Las Palmas. Sources from within the club reveal that Félix trained with special motivation this Saturday, aware that only through such efforts will he have a chance to start against PSG. However, it seems highly unlikely, and everything indicates that the chosen team will resemble closely the one that faced Napoli.

In fact, Joao Félix has only played thirteen minutes in Barcelona’s last three Champions League matches: as a substitute against Royal Antwerp in Belgium, four minutes against Napoli, and nine minutes against the same opponents at Montjuïc. Raphinha seems to have gained the upper hand by performing well as a left winger, a position in which he has adapted excellently and contributed both offensively and defensively.