The evident discord between Joao Felix and Diego Simeone became pronounced on Sunday following the Barcelona player’s goal against his parent club, Atletico Madrid.
In a 1-0 victory for Barcelona, Joao Felix, the 24-year-old Portuguese forward, showcased no restraint in celebrating his goal against Atletico, leaping onto the advertising board and gesturing with arms reminiscent of Jude Bellingham’s style.
Tensions escalated further between Felix and Atletico defender Jose Gimenez, with the two coming dangerously close to a physical altercation, as Felix accused Gimenez of striking him during their confrontation.
The strained relationship between Felix and Simeone was evident when, upon being substituted in the 79th minute, there was a noticeable lack of acknowledgement between player and manager.
Simeone opted to ignore Felix, and vice versa.
Simeone, in the post-match interviews, chose not to comment on Felix’s performance, stating, “I don’t talk about my rivals; I talk about my team and I keep the good things.”
The rift between Felix and Simeone deepened when the player lost his place in the squad, despite their joint success in winning La Liga in 2021.
Felix subsequently entered into a loan agreement with Chelsea in January, and upon his return to the Spanish capital in the summer, an immediate departure ensued.
Felix is keen on extending his loan tenure at the Nou Camp. However, Barcelona’s financial challenges might pose a hurdle in securing his continued presence.
While with the Blaugrana, the former Benfica player aims to sustain the momentum and form into the upcoming significant showdown against La Liga’s surprise contender, Girona. Barcelona is set to face the team in second place on Sunday, December 10.
The outcome of this match could have substantial implications for both Felix’s future with the club and Barcelona’s standing in the league.