João Félix returns to training with Atlético de Madrid: A surprising comeback

João Félix has recently resumed training with Atlético de Madrid, despite a strained relationship with the club and an uncertain future.

At 24, the Portuguese midfielder was not retained by FC Barcelona, where he was on loan last season.

Félix’s performances were not enough to convince the Blaugranas to keep him, especially given his high salary and Atlético’s asking price of at least €60 million.

Atlético had originally signed Félix for €127 million in 2019 and is not prepared to sell him off cheaply.

After loan spells at Chelsea and FC Barcelona, and with speculation about a possible move to Benfica this season, João Félix faces a crucial point in his career.

His performances at Euro 2024 and his strained relationship with coach Diego Simeone have not made his return to Madrid any easier, where his rapport with fans and the club’s management has also been rocky.

Nevertheless, Félix has returned to the Ciudad Deportiva Wanda Alcalá de Henares, initially training alone before joining group sessions.

Early tactical indications suggest that the Portuguese player might be integrated into the team’s setup.

Diego Simeone has experimented with a 5-4-1 formation, shifting to a 5-2-3 in attack, featuring an attacking trio of Griezmann, Correa, and potentially João Félix.

This move is unexpected, particularly since Rodrigo Riquelme is the only offensive player currently absent.

Atlético is also searching for a striker to replace Alvaro Morata, but Félix might be reintegrated into the starting lineup.

It remains to be seen whether this situation will become a permanent arrangement.