Return to Stardom?

March 19, 2022
Player Spotlight
by Craig

Talented young Portuguese forward scoring in important Domestic and Champions League games. Where have we seen this before? Look no further than Joao Felix circa 2018/19. The 22 year old may have been written off by many but he has begun to show promise again. Does he fit the system? Did he move away too soon? Does he need a change of scenery? All perfectly valid questions. The answers might be in his play now.

After scoring 20 goals for Benfica, Felix made the switch to Atletico with a huge price tag on his head. He has had a bumpy start to his Atleti career with inconsistency, playing time, and injuries which also had him riding the bench during Euro 2020. Simeone, a manager who brought a young Antoine Griezman in who to have great success in his tenure, seems to have a little more trust in Felix now than ever before. You could say he’s had mostly tap-ins recently but these goals are coming early in games, showing that he’s engaged and also confident. Confident enough to hit a sintilizing volley against Osasuna, a brace in the top four battle against Real Betis, and piercing header against Manchester United.

Is Joao Felix ready to take that next step for club and country?

Check out his rookie sticker from 2018 Panini Futebol packs and 2018/19 Topps Chrome Champions League hobby boxes!

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Player Spotlight