Joao Felix has returned to Chelsea and this time he is ready to make Stamford Bridge his permanent home.
After a successful loan and a brief stint at Barcelona, the 24-year-old striker has signed a permanent contract with the Blues and is keen to make a lasting impression.
In his first interview since returning to Chelsea, Felix spoke openly about his joy at being back at Chelsea. “It’s a chance for me to find a home,” he said, reflecting on his experience with the club so far.
“After two loans to Chelsea and Barca, I needed to stay in one place permanently. There is no better place for me than Chelsea. I see the perfect place to shine.”
MORE: All the latest Chelsea news | Premier League schedule for 2024/25 | Latest Premier League top scorers rankings
Felix’s time at Chelsea in early 2023 was full of memorable moments, including a standout performance in the Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
Despite the team’s struggles during this time, Felix developed a strong bond with the club and its fans and is now determined to build on those memories and take his game to the next level.
The Portuguese star believes he has developed as a player since his last time at Chelsea, pointing to his improved understanding of the game and his readiness for the challenges of the Premier League.
“I’ve evolved as a player in many ways: the perception of the game and the spaces where the ball can easily go, where I can have more influence,” explained Felix. “I’ve somehow changed since I was last here. I’m 24 now. I feel like I’ve grown up as a player. I’m more prepared for the Premier League.”
Felix also expressed his admiration for Chelsea’s new head coach Enzo Maresca, whose style of play he believes will perfectly complement his own. After speaking with Maresca, Felix was convinced that Chelsea was the right place for him to develop and contribute to the team’s success.
He belongs to Chelsea. 🏡
We are delighted to announce the signing of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid. 🇵🇹🔵 pic.twitter.com/k8jF2PNSgV
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) 21 August 2024
While he adjusts to life at Stamford Bridge, Felix is focused on helping Chelsea return to the top of world football.
“This season I want to play as many games as possible and help the team and the club get back to the top of world football. Chelsea have to be up there. This season we have to have a great season and I will do my best to help with that.”
Joao Felix has his sights set on the future and is ready to make Chelsea his home and bring his best to the club. The work starts now and he is determined to leave a lasting legacy at Stamford Bridge.
