Some at Barcelona had been eagerly anticipating Joao Felix's move all summer. The positionless Portuguese talent made it clear in a landmark interview in July that he wanted to leave Atletico Madrid, telling - of all people - transfer guru and social media influencer Fabrizio Romano of his intention to play for Barca.
And although the Blaugrana were both broke and sceptical, they forced the deal through on deadline day, circulating a dramatic press release that included a young Felix, sitting on a ball, talking to a version of his younger self, presumably revealing that a dream came true.
But at some point, the football side has to kick in. And Felix's career has been defined by its inconsistency, an immense talent enjoying moments of undeniable class, followed by long stretches of underperformance - especially for a player who was so good as a teenager.
Barca was supposed to be another new chance. Instead, he has endured the same troubles that have followed him for four years. And now, facing his parent club - in the shirt of his current employers - Felix once again looks like an expensive talent failing to live up to expectations.