“Xavi Does Not Count on Him” – Joao Felix’s Future at FC Barcelona Hangs in Balance, Asserts Analyst

FC Barcelona is going through a lot. While they continue to walk on ropes in a volatile domestic season, it seems the Spanish side is already setting its sights on a promising future. Aside from new arrivals, there are hints that some of the established stars might not be part of Xavi’s plans for the next season. In fact, an analyst asserts that Joao Felix might be the first player on the chopping block, who has ‘lost a lot of prominence‘ in the past few days. 

Jose Alvarez Haya recently sat down with Chiringuito Barcelona to talk about the future of the Catalan side. Interestingly, Alvarez stated, “There is a very important player from FC Barcelona who, in recent days, has lost a lot of prominence. For the coaching staff, it is not important right now, and they tell me that Xavi does not count on him for next season. The player he does not want is Joao Felix.” Alvarez insists that the decision is purely tactical-based, as the Portuguese superstar doesn’t seem to fit Xavi’s coaching style. 

Hence, the Spanish tactician can axe Joao Felix for the new season and doesn’t consider him a focal point of the team for the 2024–25 campaign. Instead, Xavi reportedly wants to strengthen another position. “If he comes on loan, he will accept it. But Xavi wants to reinforce the position of the winger. Therefore, if Joao comes on loan, good, but if not, he is not a priority for Xavi“, revealed the soccer analyst. 

Notably, Joao Felix is now in the final six months of his loan deal. Hence, it remains to be seen if Joan Laporta and Co. will extend his stay at Camp Nou or not, given his shaky form this season.

The Joao Felix situation looks to be a damp squib for Barcelona

Saying that Felix was a letdown in Barcelona would be unfair and inaccurate. There have been moments of incredible technical prowess and pivotal goals, such as the winning goal in La Liga versus Atleti, shortly before the conclusion of 2023. However, numbers can’t deny the fact that Joao Felix has made a slow start for Barcelona. 

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In 16 La Liga appearances, he has notched just 3 goals and 2 assists. Likewise, throughout the Champions League group stage, the latter again bagged 3 goals and an assist. These stats prove that the striker needs to pull up his socks. Otherwise, the player might be forced to pack his bags and find a new shelter for the forthcoming season.

What do you think will ultimately happen with Joao Felix? Let us know in the comments below.

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