Deco Criticizes Joao Felix for Demanding Starting Spot Too Early

Deco shares honest take on João Félix’s Barcelona stint

Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, recently spoke at the Dirigismo Congress. He talked about João Félix, who played for Barcelona in the 2023/24 season. Deco said Félix’s time at the club was positive, but the player sometimes expects to start too soon.

Deco explained that Félix had a great season, but the club couldn’t keep him. Atlético Madrid didn’t want to sell, and Félix chose to join Chelsea. Deco advised Félix that he’ll face tough times, not just good ones. “He’s a great kid, but sometimes it seems like he expects to start too soon,” Deco said. “Decisions aren’t always fair in football.”

Why Barcelona didn’t keep Félix

Despite Félix’s good performance, Barcelona couldn’t afford to buy him. “We didn’t have the conditions to sign him,” Deco admitted. Félix was transferred to Chelsea for 60 million euros. He struggled to impress and was loaned to Milan in January, where he worked under coach Sérgio Conceição.