Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca reveals Joao Felix's tactical role following blockbuster Atletico Madrid transfer with forward in contention to face Wolves

Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has open up on the role he wants Joao Felix to play following his move from Atletico Madrid this week.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The Portugal international returned to Stamford Bridge, where he spent six months on loan in 2023, from Atletico in a deal worth a reported £45.5 million (€53m/$59m), signing a six-year contract that includes an option to extend for a further 12 months.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
After spending last season on loan at Barcelona, Felix appeared likely to join the Catalan club on a permanent basis, but was instead drafted in as Chelsea's 10th summer signing since Maresca took charge after the close of last season. The Italian manager is confident Felix will settle in well upon his return to London and explained what he expects from him.
WHAT MARESCA SAID
"For me, he can [play as a No.9] fantastically; dropping in and giving us an extra man when we need more passes, more possession," Maresca said at a press conference. "And then to find the right moment to attack, he can do that very well. He can play as an attacking midfielder, if we need he can play also outside. He can play in different positions."
He added: "Potential, he is a top player, no doubt. I have known Joao for many, many years. Now, working with him day-by-day, I will know him even better. It is a little bit like Misha [Mudryk]; we are going to help them to improve and see if they can give one step forward to reach that kind of level for those players."

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WHAT NEXT FOR FELIX?
Maresca was asked if Felix will be part of the team for the weekend's Premier League match against Wolves. "If he is available, then for sure he can have a chance to play," he replied.
When asked if the attacker is ready to line up for the Blues, he added: "In terms of knowing the way we want to play, probably not yet. In terms of physicality, I think he is ready because he was already playing games there [at Atletico Madrid]. He needs more time to understand the way we want to play but overall I think he can play."

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