João Félix Shines on Debut After AC Milan Loan from Chelsea

MILAN, Italy — João Félix made an impressive debut for AC Milan after joining the club on a loan deal from Chelsea in the closing moments of the January transfer window. The Portuguese forward scored in Milan’s recent Coppa Italia victory against Roma, showcasing his potential to become a key player for the Serie A side.

The 25-year-old was officially announced as a Milan player on February 10, 2025, after being linked with several clubs, including Inter Milan. Félix confirmed during his unveiling that he had discussions with Inter but had already set his sights on Milan. ‘My agent talked to me about it, but I had already started negotiating with Milan, which was always my idea,’ he stated.

Félix joined Chelsea in August 2023 on a permanent transfer worth €50 million ($55.4 million) but faced difficulties in finding his footing, scoring just once in 12 appearances. ‘The expectations for me were high at all the clubs I played for, and when it doesn’t happen, you have to persevere,’ he said, emphasizing his desire to help Milan win titles.

One factor that influenced his decision to join Milan was the presence of head coach Sérgio Conceição, with whom Félix shares a mutual understanding. ‘He never told me how much I would play, but that I would play in my role, and that convinced me,’ Félix explained. ‘I know how his teams play. I like it a lot, and this is also a reason why I’m here.’

On his debut at the iconic San Siro, Félix expressed excitement about his introduction to the team. ‘It has been a fantastic week with two wins and the opportunity to play and score at San Siro. When you are here, you understand why it is among the greatest in Europe,’ he said.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, an advisor for AC Milan, expressed confidence in Félix’s capabilities, stating, ‘Let’s hope that João Félix becomes a Milan legend. He is a great talent, a young man who can still grow. He is a player of magic.’

Félix’s arrival adds further depth to Milan’s attacking options, which already includes Rafael Leão and Santiago Giménez. ‘Having four attacking players doesn’t mean having no defense,’ Félix noted. ‘We are attackers, but we also help in defense.’

The arrangement does not include a purchase option, but Félix remains open to the possibility of extending his stay in Milan. ‘For now, I’m on loan, and I’m liking everything. Let’s see how it goes. The important thing is to stay where you feel well, and I’m happy here,’ he stated.

Félix, who has previously played for clubs like Atlético Madrid and Barcelona, hopes to emulate the legacy of former Milan star Kakà. ‘My favorite player has always been Kakà. I can’t compare myself to him, but I would like to make the history he made at Milan,’ he expressed.

As AC Milan looks to climb the Serie A standings, Félix’s contributions will be crucial as they aim for a resurgence following a challenging season.