FC Barcelona continues working on the configuration of its squad. Since his arrival, Hansi Flick has analyzed each position and established his priorities. His main objective was to strengthen the midfield, but the emergence of Marc Casadó has changed the plans.
The young academy player has shown that he can assume the role of defensive pivot, which has led the coach to rethink his strategy. With the midfield apparently covered, Barça has focused its efforts on strengthening other areas of the field.
Barça Needed a Winger, But Lost Its Main Target
The blaugrana club has been searching for a top-level winger for months. In the past winter market, the main candidate was Marcus Rashford, a player who perfectly fit the profile desired by Flick.
The sports management did everything possible to close his signing, but the Englishman opted for another surprising destination and ultimately signed with Aston Villa, leaving Barça without its star reinforcement. This setback forced the club to explore new options. Names like Rafael Leão or Nico Williams began to be strongly considered, but no operation was finalized.
In the midst of this scenario, an unexpected alternative appeared. An old acquaintance of the club offered to return to Camp Nou, generating a debate in the blaugrana board.
Attempts to Return to Camp Nou
After his stint at Barça, João Félix returned to Atlético de Madrid, but his future remained unsolved. Diego Simeone has never counted on him, and the relationship between them is completely broken. In search of playing time, the Portuguese player was loaned to Chelsea, but he also didn't find the continuity he expected.
With few opportunities in the Premier League, the forward decided to seek an exit, and his desire was clear: he wanted to return to Barça. His entourage began to move, and his agent presented the possibility to the blaugrana board.
The idea of his return was not immediately dismissed, Flick and the sports management analyzed the proposal and assessed his fit in the team. João Félix already knew the club and the playing system, so his adaptation wouldn't be a problem. However, the final decision depended on the German coach.
Hansi Flick Doesn't Want Him in His Team
After a detailed analysis, Flick rejected the option of signing João Félix. Although the Portuguese player has quality and talent, the coach believes he doesn't fit into his scheme. His priority is a winger with more speed, dribbling ability, and defensive sacrifice, characteristics that are not precisely João's strengths.
The blaugrana coach wants footballers who bring balance to the team, and the Portuguese player doesn't meet that profile. Additionally, his performance in recent years has been inconsistent, which raised doubts about his true impact at Barça.
The blaugrana board communicated the decision to the player and his entourage. There would be no return to Camp Nou. Barça would continue to seek other options in the market.
Destination: AC Milan
After Barça's refusal, João Félix had to find a new alternative. Several teams showed interest, but it was AC Milan that bet on him. Finally, the Italian club closed his loan until the end of the season, giving him the opportunity to relaunch his career in Serie A.
In his first matches with the 'rossoneri,' the Portuguese player has shown glimpses of his quality, although he still needs time to find his best version. In Milan, they trust that he can regain his level and establish himself as a key piece in the team.
Flick's decision not to re-sign João Félix reflects his clear vision for the team. He doesn't want to sign based on name or individual talent, but on tactical necessity. His intention is to build a balanced team, with players who fit into his idea of play.
The club continues to search for a winger who meets his requirements. The names of Rafael Leão and Nico Williams remain on the list, but everything will depend on Barça's economic situation in the coming months. What is clear is that João Félix is no longer in the team's plans.