Chelsea's summer signing of Joao Felix has left many questioning the decision, as the Portuguese international has yet to start a Premier League game for the Blues. With Enzo Maresca's side struggling to find consistency, the pressure is mounting on Felix to prove his worth. But was he even the manager's first choice?
A Signing Out of the Blue
The deal to sign Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid seemed to come out of nowhere, with Chelsea seemingly more keen on signing another player from the Spanish side. They were strongly linked to Samu Omorodion, but eventually rejected the chance to sign the forward who is currently flying for Porto. This has led to speculation that Felix was not Maresca's first choice, but rather a signing made to facilitate a move away for Conor Gallagher.
Maresca's Centre Back Conundrum
According to reports, Maresca was far more keen on bringing in another centre back instead of Felix over the summer. The manager has stayed loyal to the same central defensive partnership of Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill whenever possible, but it is unclear if this is due to a lack of faith in the other options available. Benoit Badiashile has impressed recently, but Maresca's reluctance to give him a chance has raised eyebrows.
Felix's Impressive Performance in the Conference League
Despite struggling to break into the Premier League side, Felix has impressed in the Conference League. He scored twice in a recent game and looked a cut above everyone else on the pitch. This has led to calls for him to be given a chance in the Premier League, but Maresca has remained stubborn in his team selection.
Chelsea's Loss to Newcastle United
Chelsea's recent loss to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup has piled the pressure on Maresca and his side. The 2 0 defeat was a disappointing result, and Felix's lack of involvement has been highlighted as a major issue. The Portuguese international is yet to start a game in the Premier League, and his absence from the starting lineup has been questioned by fans and pundits alike.
Mykhailo Mudryk's Performance
One player who impressed in the Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle was Mykhailo Mudryk. The Ukrainian international looked Chelsea's biggest threat down the left wing, and his performance has put pressure on Maresca to give him more minutes in the Premier League. With Pedro Neto likely to start on the left wing against Manchester United on Sunday, Mudryk's chances of starting look slim, but he has certainly played himself into the manager's plans of late.
The Road Ahead for Felix
As Chelsea look to turn their season around, the pressure is mounting on Felix to prove his worth. With Maresca's side struggling to find consistency, the Portuguese international may be given a chance to start in the Premier League soon. But for now, he remains a substitute, and his future at the club remains uncertain.
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