João Félix is a player of undeniable talent. A silky, creative forward capable of producing moments of magic, he has all the attributes to be a star at the highest level.
Yet, despite his ability, he has spent the past few years bouncing from club to club, unable to truly settle. His latest comments about potentially staying at AC Milan beyond his loan spell only add to the ongoing narrative—Félix is still searching for a place to call home.
It’s a pattern that has followed him since his €126 million move to Atlético Madrid in 2019.
The Portuguese international struggled to fit into Diego Simeone’s rigid system and, since then, has found himself on a carousel of temporary moves.
Chelsea, Barcelona, and now Milan have all offered him opportunities, yet stability remains elusive. His statements over the past two years reveal a player desperate to find belonging but continuously forced to move on.
In March 2023, while on loan at Chelsea, Félix expressed his desire to remain in London, saying: “I am happy here. The club is so big, it is amazing, everyone behind the club is so good so yes I am happy to be here.”
Despite that, Chelsea chose not to make his move permanent, sending him back to Atlético Madrid at the end of the season.
Just a few months later, in June 2024, Félix found himself in a similar situation at Barcelona. He had impressed in La Liga but was once again in a temporary role, admitting:
“I’m on loan, it doesn’t depend on me. My plan is clear, I love Barcelona and I want to stay.” Despite his clear affection for the club, a permanent deal never materialized.
By August 2024, after returning to Stamford Bridge, Félix seemed to believe he had finally found a long-term home at Chelsea.
“It’s a chance for me to find a home. After two loans, Chelsea and Barca, I needed to stay permanently in one place. There is no better place for me to be than Chelsea. I see a perfect place to shine,” he stated.
However, his struggles for consistent minutes under Enzo Maresca meant his stay was once again short-lived.
Now, after moving to AC Milan on loan in January 2025, Félix has hinted at yet another possible long-term stay. “I’ve joined AC Milan on loan but if there’s a chance to stay beyond this season… I’d be happy,” he admitted.
Four clubs, four different statements of intent, and yet, Félix remains in footballing limbo. His search for a permanent home continues, but whether Milan will finally offer him that stability remains to be seen.
