Joao Felix has role to play despite Atletico ´differences´, says Simeone

Joao Felix has a role to play at Atletico Madrid despite his “differences” with the club, says Diego Simeone, who expects the forward to give his maximum while he remains with Los Colchoneros.

The Portugal international has been linked with a move away from the Metropolitano after appearing to criticise Simeone’s methods while at the World Cup earlier this month.

Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal have all been linked with a move for the 23-year-old, whose tally of 33 Atleti goals since his 2019 arrival is only bettered by Luis Suarez (34) in that span.

While Simeone hinted Joao Felix’s exit was in the offing when he warned “no one is essential” last week, the Argentine says the forward must continue to contribute until any move is agreed.

“We have a good working relationship, beyond some differences that there may be between people. We can’t agree on everything,” Simeone said at a press conference on Wednesday.

“We have differences, but I always look for the best for the club until the last day that I or the players are there.

“We squeeze the maximum out of everyone until the last day that I or they are here.”

Joao Felix scored one goal and added two assists as Portugal reached the last eight in Qatar, with his total of three World Cup goal involvements only bettered by two Selecao team-mates – Bruno Fernandes with five and Goncalo Ramos with four.

Simeone called for the forward to replicate that form ahead of Atleti’s return to league action against Elche, adding: “What matters to me is the team, and he is important to the team.

“If he shows us what we saw in the World Cup, he will be very important. He has the conditions and the talent, and the team needs his qualities.”