Chelsea took João Félix from Atlético Madrid in the winter market after he signed a new deal until 2027.
The forward was sent off on his debut against Fulham in January. After missing the last three matches, he is eligible to make his second appearance for the Blues on Saturday.
AS visited the 23-year-old in London for a detailed chat, where he discussed various topics, including his sending off. He said Kepa, César Azpilicueta and Marc Cucurella have helped him with his adaptation at Chelsea.
The Portugal international has also revealed he likes Graham Potter’s philosophy.
“One of the first days he called me to his locker room. We were talking about his game idea, the game idea he had thought of for me. He explained to me how the team plays and what they do. I really liked that he interacted with me. You can tell that he is a very good person and a great coach,” he said.
“He likes to have the ball, control the game and attack. Of course, he also defends when he has to defend, but he likes to control the game and attack. I like that.”
Atlético let the ex-Benfica star join Chelsea on a dry loan deal. Two days ago, Mundo Deportivo reported the La Liga side hope Félix shines at the west London club so that they can invest big to buy him in the summer.
After praising Potter, Félix was asked whether he plans to continue at Chelsea beyond this season.
“They [Chelsea] don’t have a purchase option. They would have to reach an agreement with Atlético. I’ve only been here a few weeks, a month. I am knowing everything. I am very comfortable, but nobody knows the future,” Félix explained.
The player believes the loan move to Chelsea will benefit both him and Los Rojiblacnos. He made this claim when asked why he decided to leave Atlético.
“I was already looking for a change of scenery a while ago, because it was difficult to get used to the way of playing. I left because my head was already full from trying so hard and not being able to. It had to be in this market and I think it has been good for Atleti and for me too,” he stressed.
“Contrary to many people, Miguel [Ángel Gil Marín, Atlético CEO] has always trusted me a lot, he has always twisted his arm for me. I have a good relationship with him.
“I appreciate him letting me out because I needed it, it wasn’t right. Miguel has always believed in me and I think he continues to believe. He sees me as a hope for Atlético, but we’ll see…”
Félix’s strained relationship with Diego Simeone has been cited as the main reason for his exit from the club. There have been rumours about Atlético planning to part ways with the manager after this season.
AS ended the interview by asking the attacker whether he and Simeone will be at Atlético next season.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen in my life. Nor is it known what will become of Cholo,” Félix said.
