Joao Félix’s Future Hangs on Fair Play: Summit for Zubimendi

Joao Félix has appeared in 41 matches this season for Barça. However, Xavi’s confidence in the Portuguese forward has waned over time. For instance, he was not a starter in any of the Champions League Round of 16 matches against Napoli, nor in either of the quarter-final clashes against PSG. In three of those matches, he played less than ten minutes. In the last five league games, he only started once, against Cádiz, where he scored the winning goal.

It’s clear that Xavi is not convinced by Joao Félix’s inconsistency, despite his spectacular talent, nor by the lack of effort the Portuguese sometimes displays on the field. In fact, Xavi wasn’t convinced of his arrival last summer, as hinted by his inner circle on several occasions. However, the difficulties in securing other desired reinforcements made him accept the arrival of the Atlético Madrid player on loan.

Given his limited playing time in recent weeks, it’s logical to think that Joao Félix will return to Atlético Madrid this summer, as feared at the Metropolitano, knowing that Diego Simeone doesn’t want him and that he has a contract until 2029. However, Barça doesn’t rule out the possibility of him staying in Blaugrana.

“It will all depend on fair play and what we can sign,” explain sources from the club. In other words, Xavi’s priority isn’t to ensure Joao Félix’s continuity, but it will depend on what reinforcements arrive. Xavi’s intention is to revolutionize the attack and bring in two forwards. The priority is a left-wing winger, precisely the position usually occupied by the Portuguese, with Nico Williams being the preferred player. Additionally, the arrival of Dani Olmo, a versatile player who can play in all three attacking positions, is also being considered.

If these two players were to arrive, Joao Félix would have no place in Barça’s squad. However, if the summer market doesn’t go as desired due to restrictions or unforeseen circumstances, the Portuguese could still find a place in the squad, as Xavi doesn’t want a short squad. He already considers the current season’s squad too short, which has influenced the final results.

The only thing clear at the moment is that when the season ends, Joao Félix will return to Atlético Madrid, where he cannot play considering the reception he received from their fans during Barça’s last visit to the Metropolitano. There will be weeks to determine his future. If he must play a second season for Barça, both clubs and his agent, Jorge Mendes, will need to negotiate a new loan, as Barça is not willing to pay the approximately €60 million that Atlético Madrid wants for the Portuguese.