Barcelona sporting director Deco has addressed João Félix’s situation, acknowledging the player’s talent while hinting at unresolved challenges regarding his future at the club. Deco confirmed that Félix had a solid season with Barcelona but revealed that Atlético Madrid’s reluctance to sell him permanently complicated any potential deal. “João performed well, but Atlético never intended to let him go,” he stated. The Barcelona director didn’t shy away from discussing Félix’s mentality, suggesting the Portuguese forward struggles with adversity.
“He’s incredibly skilled, but when things get tough, he sometimes gives up too easily,” Deco remarked. The comments highlight a key concern: Félix’s ability to handle setbacks. Deco implied that the 24-year-old must improve his resilience if he hopes to secure a long-term role at Camp Nou. Atlético Madrid’s stance remains a major obstacle. With no willingness to negotiate a permanent transfer, Félix’s future at Barcelona appears uncertain unless circumstances shift dramatically. Deco’s remarks suggest that while Félix has the talent to succeed at the highest level, his mentality could be a deciding factor in whether Barcelona pushes to retain him beyond his loan spell.
For now, a permanent move seems unlikely, leaving Félix in limbo. The coming weeks could prove crucial as both clubs assess their options ahead of the new season. Barcelona’s transfer strategy remains fluid, and Félix’s case is just one of many dilemmas they face this summer. His next steps will depend on both his response to Deco’s critique and Atlético’s demands. The situation serves as a reminder that in modern football, talent alone isn’t always enough—mental strength often makes the difference between success and stagnation.