"We Need Defensive Balance" – Enzo Maresca on Joao Felix's Chelsea Exit

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has explained why Joao Felix left the club to join AC Milan on loan, insisting that “nothing happened” between them and that it was a decision made for the balance of the team.

Joao Felix’s departure from Chelsea on the final day of the transfer window raised a lot of questions. The Portuguese forward had only joined the club in the summer and signed a seven-year contract, but just six months later, he was sent out on loan. Many fans and pundits were left wondering why Chelsea made such a decision after committing to him for the long term.

In his press conference before Chelsea’s FA Cup match against Brighton, Maresca addressed the situation. Maresca strongly denying any issues when asked if there had been any behind-the-scenes incidents that could have resulted to Felix’s departure.

“Nothing happened. Players train every day and want to play all of the games, but unfortunately, only 11 can start,” Maresca said. “We decided, all together, that it was a good option for him to leave.”

According to some fans, Felix may have requested a transfer because he was dissatisfied with his role at the club. However, Maresca disputed this idea, stating that the player never complained.

“No, to be honest, he never complained. He has been very good with us, professional. It was just my decision,” the Chelsea boss explained.

While Maresca insisted that Felix’s attitude was never a problem, he then hinted at the real reason behind the decision—Chelsea’s need for better defensive structure.

“I think we need defensive balance, and when you have so many attacking players, sometimes you can concede transitions and goals. I don’t like that.”

Felix may not have suited the team’s defensive demands with his style of play, according to Maresca. The Portuguese striker is famous for his attacking skills and not his defensive abilities. Some think Maresca’s words could be taken as well as a subtle criticism of Chelsea’s squad structure, considering that the team signed a lot of attacking players without giving sufficient attention to defensive midfielders.

Although there is no proof of any form of misunderstanding between Felix and Maresca, but the situation raises questions about Chelsea’s transfer policy. Bringing Felix in on a long-term contract just to have him go so quickly may not have been the wisest decision.

Chelsea will concentrate on finding the correct balance in their team for the rest of the season, while Felix will try to establish himself at AC Milan, where he has a new beginning.