Enzo Maresca Sindir Joao Felix: Chelsea Will Not Miss You

JAKARTA - Chelsea's head coach, Enzo Maresca, satirized the striker who was loaned to AC Milan, Joao Felix, saying his team would not miss the Portuguese player even though their list of injuries increased.

The western London club was eliminated from the FA Cup by Brighton on Sunday, February 9, 2025.

Christopher Nkunku, who is rarely fielded as a center-forward this time playing starter after injury, made Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu unable to play.

Chelsea signed Felix on a permanent contract at the end of last summer's transfer window from Atletico Madrid for 50 million euros including additional costs.

The Portugal international struggled to appear regular in the Premier League, scoring only one goal in 12 games and playing as a starting three times.

He was then loaned to AC Milan on a six-month contract on the last day of the winter transfer market although no purchase options were included.

"I don't think we miss Joao. He's happy there (Milan). We're happy he's happy."

"Two injuries on the last day of the transfer market. It's difficult. Nico (Jackson) may be back soon."

"Sometimes I think we need to play some games without certain players to realize their importance," Maresca said when asked about her decision to let Felix leave.

In a press conference ahead of Brighton's match on Friday, February 7, 2025, Maresca told reporters that the decision to let Felix leave was not due to personal problems.

However, Maresca was unable to provide enough playing time to the attacker.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed the start of his outstanding career in Italy. He scored on his debut as Milan beat Roma 3-1 in the Coppa Italia.

Felix also played 84 minutes in their 2-0 win over Empoli in Serie A on Sunday, February 9, 2025.