After a standout performance for Portugal in their 1-1 Nations League draw with Croatia, Joao Felix has called on Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca to utilize him in a central attacking role. The 25-year-old forward, who permanently joined Chelsea for £45 million last summer following a loan spell, believes his best contributions come from playing centrally, a position he hasn’t consistently occupied in recent years.
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In an interview with Sport TV, Felix said:
“I think where I can perform best is in the central area of the pitch, something I haven’t played in the last four years. Whether as a false nine, a No.10, or a second striker, I think that’s where I can help the team the most.”
Felix’s preference for a central role comes amid stiff competition in Chelsea’s attacking department. Despite his prolific form in European and domestic cup competitions—four goals in three Conference League games and starts in both Carabao Cup ties—he has yet to secure a Premier League start this season, making only two substitute appearances.
Enzo Maresca has acknowledged Felix’s talent but emphasized the importance of maintaining balance in Chelsea’s attack:
“I feel a shame for Joao and I would like to give him more minutes in the Premier League, but we need defensive balance. We cannot play with Joao, Cole [Palmer], and Christo [Nkunku] all at once. I’d like to put all of them on the pitch, but then you need to defend.”
Maresca added that Felix’s commitment and performance in training would eventually earn him his Premier League moment:
“I don’t have any doubts that if Joao keeps working well, he will find his moment in the Premier League.”
Felix expressed optimism about his Chelsea future but remained realistic about the challenges of establishing himself:
“I always try to do my best; I work for that. I’m a professional so I can be at my best. And if it’s this season, or next season, in two years, three, or ten… I don’t know. But it will happen one day.”
Chelsea’s attacking options have flourished under Maresca, with players like Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, and Raheem Sterling competing for key positions. Felix’s versatility and technical skills add another layer of complexity to the selection process. However, the Portuguese forward’s desire for a central role might influence Maresca’s tactical decisions in the busy festive period ahead.
As Chelsea prepares to face Leicester City in their next Premier League clash, Felix’s recent international display and his call for a more central role could provide Maresca with food for thought. With Chelsea chasing both domestic and European success, finding the right balance to integrate Felix could prove pivotal in maximizing the squad’s potential.