November 19th 2024.
Joao Felix put on an impressive performance as he represented Portugal in their 1-1 draw against Croatia on Monday night. The talented player has been communicating with Enzo Maresca and has expressed his desire to play in a central attacking position for Chelsea. After returning from a loan spell at Atletico Madrid, Felix joined Chelsea permanently in the summer for a fee of £45 million. However, the 25-year-old has faced tough competition for a spot in Maresca's attacking lineup, making it difficult for him to secure a regular role at the club.
Despite only making two substitute appearances in the Premier League this season, Felix has managed to score four goals in three Conference League games and has also started both matches in the Carabao Cup. Maresca has emphasized the importance of finding balance in Chelsea's attack, and Felix made his preference for a central role clear after scoring in Portugal's recent match.
"I believe that my best performances come when I am playing in the central area of the pitch, a position I have not played in for the past four years," Felix shared with Sport TV. "Whether it's as a false nine, a number 10, or a second striker, I feel I can contribute the most to the team's game in that position. You could see that in the first half against Croatia."
When asked if this will be a season where he establishes himself at Chelsea, Felix replied, "I cannot predict the future, but I always strive to do my best. I am a professional, and I work hard to be at my best. Whether it happens this season, next season, or in the future, I am confident that it will happen one day."
Maresca also expressed his regret over not being able to give Felix more minutes in the Premier League before the international break. "I feel sorry for Joao, and I would love to give him more playing time in the Premier League. However, we need to maintain defensive balance, and we cannot afford to play with Joao, Cole Palmer, and Christo Nkunku all at once," he stated. "But I have no doubt that if Joao continues to work hard, he will have his moment in the Premier League."
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