Atletico Madrid president on Joao Felix’s continuity at Barcelona: “The future cannot be predicted”

Joao Felix’s roar after scoring Barcelona’s opener against Atletico Madrid earlier this month will go down as one of the most memorable moments at Estadi Olimpic =Lluis Companys. After all, the player’s sour relations with Diego Simeone’s side are well-known.

The Portuguese star’s celebration appeared to be an unshackling in many ways, for the player suffered to no end at the Madrid-based club last season.

Yet, the reality remains that Felix is contracted to Atletico Madrid and is plying his trade for Barcelona only on loan.

Atletico Madrid president talks about the loanee

A lot has been said about Barcelona’s sensations around the Portuguese star so far.

The Catalans were initially convinced by the player’s performances at the club, coercing them to explore the possibility of a permanent transfer. However, the honeymoon period soon fizzled out and so did Felix’s output.

Joao Felix’s future at Barcelona beyond this season is still uncertain and will depend on his performances in the coming months.

Speaking to the media earlier this week, Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo outlined the various possibilities around the star’s future.

“We are clear. Joao is a loaned player to Barcelona, ​​and if he does not want to continue, he will return to us, and if he returns, there may be other teams interested. The future cannot be predicted,” he said, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano.

Talks ongoing

As relayed earlier this week, Xavi & Co. are willing to take the bet on Joao Felix in the long term despite his relative slump in form.

The Blaugranas have already begun negotiations with Atletico Madrid over his future and hope to make the signing permanent by creative manoeuvres.

Given their financial situation, paying Los Rojiblancos the desired fee as a lumpsum is out of the question. Talks of a new one-year loan have thus surfaced, although this time it would contain a mandatory purchase clause attached.

A player exchange involving Ferran Torres has also been talked of, but that is unlikely to materialise.