Diego Simeone claims Joao Felix “important” to Atletico Madrid amidst Manchester United links
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has stated Joao Felix is “important” for Los Rojiblancos amidst links to Manchester United. However, the Portugal international’s time at the La Liga outfit seems to be nearing its end.
Recently, the Spanish club’s CEO had admitted that the club were open to parting ways with the 23-year-old. They would be willing to let the forward go as long as Financial Fair Play costs are covered by the interested club.
However, speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Simeone suggested that he was looking to keep Felix at Atletico. The Argentine head coach sees the forward as a critical member of the team.
“Everyone is giving their maximum. What matters to me is the team and he [Felix] is important to the team. If he gives us what we saw in the World Cup, he will be very important. He has the condition and the talent and the team need his qualities.”
The 23-year-old joined Los Rojiblancos in the summer of 2019 from SL Benfica. After impressing with the Primeira Liga outfit, the La Liga giants pounced on his signature.
However, since the move to Spain, the Portugal international has been rather underwhelming. He has failed to live up to the expectations under Simeone at the Madrid-based club.
Felix also looks to have fallen down the pecking order at Atletico. He has started just five games in La Liga for Los Rojiblancos this season.
But the 23-year-old shone for Portugal at the 2022 World Cup. He was a pivotal player for Fernando Santos’ team as they made it to the quarter-finals in Qatar, only to lose to Morocco.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure has left Erik ten Hag with only one number nine in Anthony Martial. Unfortunately, the 27-year-old has had trouble remaining fit in the current campaign. As a result, the Dutch manager has opted to play Marcus Rashford as a striker several times.
More Manchester United News
- West Ham United will “fight” to keep of Declan Rice amidst Manchester United interest
- Inter Milan centre-back Stefan de Vrij being eyed by Manchester United on free transfer
- Manchester United tipped to enquire about AS Roma star Tammy Abraham
United seemingly need to bolster their front line. However, will we get a deal for Felix over the line in January? It remains to be seen.
