'Incredible' Joao Felix hailed by former Atletico Madrid team-mate

19 Nov 2023 16:08 GMT
3 min read

Joao Felix, Barcelona, 2023/24 — © ProShots

Barcelona forward Joao Felix has been heavily praised by Atletico Madrid star Samuel Lino, despite his summer move away from the club.

Felix, 24, left Atleti to join Barcelona on a one-year loan deal after publicly stating that it was his dream to move to Camp Nou.

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The Portugal international spent the opening few games of the 2023-24 season on the bench, amid outrage from the Atletico Madrid fanbase, before he sealed a loan move to Barcelona on Transfer Deadline Day.

On the same day, his international team-mate Joao Cancelo also arrived in Catalunya on loan from Manchester City after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola.

Barcelona have stated their intention to sign both players on permanent deals next summer, but their financial issues mean that may be a tricky task.

Spanish outlet SPORT have even reported that Blaugrana Sporting Director Deco has “devised a plan” to sign Felix for less than Atletico Madrid’s €80 million valuation, with a second loan deal with a buy-option seen as a viable possibility.

However, despite his summer move away from the Wanda Metropolitano, Felix is still admired by his former team-mates.

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— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) November 14, 2023

What has been said?

Speaking to Diario AS, Lino admitted: “He felt he needed to change. He’s at Barcelona, he wanted to follow a different path, and I wish him all the luck in the world. I got along very well with him, I really like him as a person, he’s incredible.”

Lino, 23, has made 11 appearances in all competitions this campaign, scoring three goals and providing four assists. The Brazilian has only started four La Liga games this term, but has been a constant threat whenever Diego Simeone gives him a chance on the left flank.

As for Felix, he also has three goals and four assists this season following his loan move to Barcelona.