Diego Simeone states Joao Felix’s role at Atletico Madrid amidst transfer speculations

Diego Simeone asserts that despite his “differences” with the team, Joao Felix has a place at Atletico Madrid and that he should give everything he has while he is still a member of Los Colchoneros.

The Portugal international has been linked with a transfer away from the Metropolitano after it appeared that he was critical of Simeone’s tactics earlier this month while at the World Cup.

The 23-year- old’s 33 goals for Atleti since his 2019 arrival are only surpassed by Luis Suarez’s (34) during that time. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal have all been linked with a move for the player.

Simeone suggested last week that Joao Felix would be leaving the team, but the Argentinean insists that the forward must keep working hard until a deal is reached.

Diego Simeone’s statement

“We have a good working relationship, beyond some differences that there may be between people. We can’t agree on everything,” Simeone said at a press conference on Wednesday.

“We have differences, but I always look for the best for the club until the last day that I or the players are there. 

“We squeeze the maximum out of everyone until the last day that I or they are here.” 

Joao Felix helped Portugal advance to the round of 16 in Qatar with one goal and two assists. Only two of his Selecao teammates, Bruno Fernandes with five and Goncalo Ramos with four, had more World Cup goal involvements.

Prior to Atleti’s return to league play against Elche, Simeone urged the forward to continue in that vein, adding:

“What matters to me is the team, and he is important to the team. 

“If he shows us what we saw in the World Cup, he will be very important. He has the conditions and the talent, and the team needs his qualities.”