After extending his contract until 2027 with Atletico Madrid, Joao Félix joined Chelsea on a 6-month loan.
The west London club, which were desperate to strengthen their attacking sector, secured the Portuguese's services in return for an €11million loan fee in addition to full payment of the player's salary on the loan period without purchase option
It was therefore on the occasion of the London derby which opposed Fulham to Chelsea this Thursday evening that coach Graham Potter decided to grant his first tenure to the young Portuguese.
At the end of the first half, which saw Willian open the scoring against his former club, Joao Félix established himself as one of the best elements of his team.
It was in the 56th minute, after a failed control, that the former Benfiquist launched into a dangerous and uncontrolled tackle which earned him immediate expulsion.
We had a better start at a new club 😭
Red card for Joao Felix on this big forward tackle 🟥#FULCHE |
#PremierLeague pic.twitter.com/Wehx9TrSPr
- CANAL + Foot (@CanalplusFoot) January 12, 2023
“It's a striker's tackle, it doesn't look like a gesture of humor, it was poorly controlled launched Graham Potter in a post-match press conference.
It's football action that can happen with the speed of the Premier League.
He didn't go there to hurt anyone.
He hasn't lost his mind.
These are all learning moments.
Joao is a young player, a top player, and we can see his qualities.
There was no malice but I understand why he received a red.
His foot was a little high and the referee has a decision to make.
" At 10 against 11 Chelsea lost to the Cottagers (2-1), "It's really frustrating, incredibly difficult and I'm sorry for the fans, Potter apologized.
It's another blow, they are linked at the moment.
He was really good, you could see his quality in the game,
so losing Joao for three games is really disappointing.
»
Following this tackle deemed dangerous, Félix will have to serve a 3-game suspension.
The Portuguese will not return to Premier League grounds until February.
One more thorn in the side of Graham Potter and his men who must nevertheless strive to walk forward.