Chelsea take note: Atlético boss Simeone explains João Félix’s absence vs Villarreal

Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has provided an insight into the reasoning behind his decision to leave João Félix out of his squad to face Villarreal.

Frontman Félix was for his part named as part of Atlético’s initial matchday squad to make the trip to La Cerámica, for the club’s La Liga season opener.

Upon the Rojiblancos’ official XI and bench being unveiled online, however, the Portuguese, all of a sudden, was nowhere to be seen.

Amid claims that Félix is on the verge of sealing a return to the Premier League with Chelsea, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of as much was put to Diego Simeone on Monday night.

And, fresh off a 2-2 stalemate to kickstart the campaign, Atlético’s headmaster was not shy in admitting that Félix is indeed primed to depart:

“João Félix out tonight? Soon you will be informed, it’s about a transfer. I’ve already been informed about that.”

Conor Laird | GSFN