Joao Felix said on Monday (Aug 18) that Portugal team-mate and close friend Diogo Jota will "forever be a part of football history" following the Liverpool star's death aged 28. Jota was killed along with his brother Andre Silva when their Lamborghini went off the road in northern Spain on July 3. Just 11 days before the accident, the Portuguese forward had married Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children. The Premier League remembered Jota over the weekend in a series of moving tributes.&nbsp;Adding his voice to the outpouring of grief across the football world, Felix looked visibly moved as he spoke about his good friend and international colleague.&nbsp;Felix, who was among the mourners at the brothers' funeral, said: "Diogo to me was one of my best friends in the national team, he was always part of our mini group in the national team, those of us who were always together.&nbsp;"I knew his family, especially his parents, an incredible family."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-window-here-are-5-big-deals-that-could-happen-before-deadline-day-alexander-isak-eberechi-eze-1755506214856">Transfer window: Here are 5 big deals that could happen before deadline day</a>&nbsp;Speaking in Hong Kong, where Felix is with his new team, Al Nassr, for this week's Saudi Super Cup, the 25-year-old added, "I think he will forever be a part of football history; he will remain in the hearts of those who were already close to him.&nbsp;"After that day, every time we go on the field, we will remember him and play in part for him."&nbsp;The attacker Felix joined fellow Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr late last month from Chelsea in a move reported to be worth up to 43.7 million pounds ($58 million).&nbsp;Felix, who has also played for Benfica, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and AC Milan, will reportedly earn $10 million a year.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Adding his voice to the outpouring of grief across the football world, Felix looked visibly moved as he spoke about his good friend and international colleague.

Joao Felix said on Monday (Aug 18) that Portugal team-mate and close friend Diogo Jota will "forever be a part of football history" following the Liverpool star's death aged 28. Jota was killed along with his brother Andre Silva when their Lamborghini went off the road in northern Spain on July 3. Just 11 days before the accident, the Portuguese forward had married Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children. The Premier League remembered Jota over the weekend in a series of moving tributes. Adding his voice to the outpouring of grief across the football world, Felix looked visibly moved as he spoke about his good friend and international colleague. Felix, who was among the mourners at the brothers' funeral, said: "Diogo to me was one of my best friends in the national team, he was always part of our mini group in the national team, those of us who were always together. "I knew his family, especially his parents, an incredible family." Also read | Transfer window: Here are 5 big deals that could happen before deadline day Speaking in Hong Kong, where Felix is with his new team, Al Nassr, for this week's Saudi Super Cup, the 25-year-old added, "I think he will forever be a part of football history; he will remain in the hearts of those who were already close to him. "After that day, every time we go on the field, we will remember him and play in part for him." The attacker Felix joined fellow Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr late last month from Chelsea in a move reported to be worth up to 43.7 million pounds ($58 million). Felix, who has also played for Benfica, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and AC Milan, will reportedly earn $10 million a year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Adding his voice to the outpouring of grief across the football world, Felix looked visibly moved as he spoke about his good friend and international colleague.

Felix remembers close friend Diogo Jota, says he will ‘forever be part of football history’

AC Milan secured a loan deal for Chelsea forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/joao-felix">Joao Felix</a> as the Serie A club made four late signings in the winter transfer window in a bid to revive their season.
In a statement Milan said that Portugal forward Felix, who only scored one league goal for Chelsea since signing from Atletico Madrid in the summer, "has signed a contract with the club lasting until 30 June 2025".
Milan only announced the Felix deal Tuesday, but the required paperwork was submitted before Monday's transfer deadline.&nbsp;
Alvaro Morata left Sergio Conceicao's side on loan to Galatasaray at the weekend and the seven-time European champions moved to bolster their forward line with Felix and Santiago Gimenez.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/real-madrid-star-kylian-mbappe-to-miss-copa-del-rey-quarter-final-8690809">Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe to miss Copa del Rey quarter-final</a>
Mexico striker Gimenez was brought in for a reported 32 million euros ($33.1 million) plus add-ons from Feyenoord, where he scored 65 goals across two and a half seasons.
Milan, who sit eighth in Serie A, also signed attacking midfielder Warren Bondo from Monza for 10 million euros and forward Riccardo Sottil on loan from Fiorentina on deadline day, while Ismael Bennacer left for Marseille and Noah Okafor joined Napoli.
"Monday was a very intense, interesting day. We did a good job, what we wanted to do," said Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Gimenez's presentation press conference on Tuesday.
"We're satisfied, this will be the team which turns things around."
Milan are seven points off the Serie A top four and 19 behind league leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/napoli">Napoli</a> after drawing a dramatic derby with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/inter-milan">Inter Milan</a> on Sunday.
They also missed the chance to qualify directly for the Champions League last 16 with a loss at Dinamo Zagreb last week, having to settle for a place in the play-off round.
Milan host Roma in the Italian Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday and then travel to Empoli before the first leg of their play-off tie with Feyenoord next week.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Football Sports: Italian club AC Milan only announced the Felix deal on Tuesday, but the required paperwork was submitted before Monday's transfer deadline

AC Milan secured a loan deal for Chelsea forward Joao Felix as the Serie A club made four late signings in the winter transfer window in a bid to revive their season. In a statement Milan said that Portugal forward Felix, who only scored one league goal for Chelsea since signing from Atletico Madrid in the summer, "has signed a contract with the club lasting until 30 June 2025". Milan only announced the Felix deal Tuesday, but the required paperwork was submitted before Monday's transfer deadline. Alvaro Morata left Sergio Conceicao's side on loan to Galatasaray at the weekend and the seven-time European champions moved to bolster their forward line with Felix and Santiago Gimenez. Also Read: Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe to miss Copa del Rey quarter-final Mexico striker Gimenez was brought in for a reported 32 million euros ($33.1 million) plus add-ons from Feyenoord, where he scored 65 goals across two and a half seasons. Milan, who sit eighth in Serie A, also signed attacking midfielder Warren Bondo from Monza for 10 million euros and forward Riccardo Sottil on loan from Fiorentina on deadline day, while Ismael Bennacer left for Marseille and Noah Okafor joined Napoli. "Monday was a very intense, interesting day. We did a good job, what we wanted to do," said Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Gimenez's presentation press conference on Tuesday. "We're satisfied, this will be the team which turns things around." Milan are seven points off the Serie A top four and 19 behind league leaders Napoli after drawing a dramatic derby with Inter Milan on Sunday. They also missed the chance to qualify directly for the Champions League last 16 with a loss at Dinamo Zagreb last week, having to settle for a place in the play-off round. Milan host Roma in the Italian Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday and then travel to Empoli before the first leg of their play-off tie with Feyenoord next week. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Portugal's Joao Felix joins AC Milan on loan from Chelsea

Portugal star Joao Cancelo has confirmed his desire to play for Barcelona in the 2024-25 season as the player keeps the Spanish giants as top priority. Cancelo, still a Manchester City player will return to his parent club after his deal expires. However, the Portugal star’s relationship with Pep Guardiola is not great and is expected to be sold or loaned out again.

Addressing the issue, Cancelo has stated that he would be happy to return to Barcelona.

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🔵🔴 João Cancelo confirms: "I really like being at Barça, I am very comfortable". 
 
"My family, my daughter, my wife also. We hope that next year we will be here!", told <a href="https://twitter.com/futbolemotion?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@futbolemotion</a>. <a href="https://t.co/1iXoej3fsS">pic.twitter.com/1iXoej3fsS</a>
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<h2>Cancelo hints at Barcelona's return</h2>

"I really like being at Barça, I am very comfortable. My family, my daughter, my wife also. We hope that next year we will be here,” Cancelo said in the post-match after Portugal beat Czechia.

Having spent the entire last season on loan with the Spanish giants, Cancelo wants Barcelona to strike a deal in the coming days. The club is also happy to keep the Portuguese player, but face Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues. According to the FFP rules, Barcelona will first have to sell players before purchasing any.

<h2>What needs to happen for Cancelo to return?</h2>

Reports have stated that Barcelona’s current financial situation has made them unable to register new manager Flick with La Liga. For Cancelo to stay, the club needs to sell homegrown players or loan them out to create space on the balance sheet. Selling homegrown players offers the best deal as they would account for zero loss on the balance sheet.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-francisco-conceicaos-stoppage-time-winner-helps-portugal-down-czechs-in-group-opener-733001">Euro 2024: Francisco Conceicao's stoppage time winner helps Portugal down Czechs in group opener</a>

If the wage bill is still not fixed, Cancelo might have to take a pay cut which could help the club register him. Another option is to ask the parent club, Manchester City, to terminate his current contract and sign for free while also registering him for a lower salary.

For now, the Portuguese defender will have his eyes on winning international honours as his side are one of the favouirtes to win the ongoing Euro 2024.

Portugal made a winning start having beaten Czechia 2-1 on Tuesday evening.

They will next face Turkiye and Georgia in the group stage matches before turning their attention to the knockout stages.

Portugal star Joao Cancelo has confirmed his desire to play for Barcelona in the 2024-25 season as the player keeps the Spanish giants as top priority. Cancelo, still a Manchester City player will return to his parent club after his deal expires.

Portugal star Joao Cancelo has confirmed his desire to play for Barcelona in the 2024-25 season as the player keeps the Spanish giants as top priority. Cancelo, still a Manchester City player will return to his parent club after his deal expires. However, the Portugal star’s relationship with Pep Guardiola is not great and is expected to be sold or loaned out again. Addressing the issue, Cancelo has stated that he would be happy to return to Barcelona. 🔵🔴 João Cancelo confirms: "I really like being at Barça, I am very comfortable". "My family, my daughter, my wife also. We hope that next year we will be here!", told @futbolemotion. pic.twitter.com/1iXoej3fsS — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2024 × Cancelo hints at Barcelona's return "I really like being at Barça, I am very comfortable. My family, my daughter, my wife also. We hope that next year we will be here,” Cancelo said in the post-match after Portugal beat Czechia. Having spent the entire last season on loan with the Spanish giants, Cancelo wants Barcelona to strike a deal in the coming days. The club is also happy to keep the Portuguese player, but face Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues. According to the FFP rules, Barcelona will first have to sell players before purchasing any. What needs to happen for Cancelo to return? Reports have stated that Barcelona’s current financial situation has made them unable to register new manager Flick with La Liga. For Cancelo to stay, the club needs to sell homegrown players or loan them out to create space on the balance sheet. Selling homegrown players offers the best deal as they would account for zero loss on the balance sheet. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: Francisco Conceicao's stoppage time winner helps Portugal down Czechs in group opener If the wage bill is still not fixed, Cancelo might have to take a pay cut which could help the club register him. Another option is to ask the parent club, Manchester City, to terminate his current contract and sign for free while also registering him for a lower salary. For now, the Portuguese defender will have his eyes on winning international honours as his side are one of the favouirtes to win the ongoing Euro 2024. Portugal made a winning start having beaten Czechia 2-1 on Tuesday evening. They will next face Turkiye and Georgia in the group stage matches before turning their attention to the knockout stages.

'I really like being at Barça': Joao Cancelo confirms desire to stay at Barcelona as Man City exit accelerates

It will be a summer of fresh starts for Barcelona as they try to challenge Real Madrid at the peak of their powers with plans already set for the transfer window. While the club is fighting with financial constraints which led to the sacking of head coach Xavi Hernandez after the 2023-24 season, it now plans to revive its fortunes and will look to wrap the transfer business early. Part of that plan includes keeping both Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix at the club who were on-loan at Barcelona.

<h2>Hansi Flick gives green light</h2>

After Xavi's sacking, the Catalonian giants board wasted no time in appointing Hansi Flick as their new manager. The new manager has given the green light to keep both Cancelo and Fleix at the club while their parent sides are already in negotiation to get rid of them on the wage bill. However, the club will have to tackle Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations of La Liga and UEFA which could make things a little complicated.

As things stand, Barcelona can’t register their new signing before they sell players or agree to sign them on lower salaries. This means the club will have to sell players or loan them out with their salaries covered by the new club.

Last season Barcelona had to loan out Ansu Fati and sell Ousmane Dembélé to create space for new arrivals. Barcelona did not spend a penny on the big three arrivals of Cancelo, Felix and İlkay Gündoğan with the latter being a free transfer from Manchester City.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-2024-carlos-alcaraz-terms-jannik-sinner-best-in-the-world-ahead-of-semifinal-clash-728944">French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz terms Jannik Sinner 'best in the world' ahead of semifinal clash</a>

<h2>What needs to happen for Cancelo, Felix to stay?</h2>

Reports have stated that Barcelona’s current financial situation has seen them unable to register new manager Flick with La Liga. For Cancelo and Felix to stay, the club needs to again sell homegrown players or loan them out to create space on the balance sheet. Selling homegrown players offers the best deal as they would account for zero loss on the balance sheet.

If the wage bill is still not fixed, both Cancelo and Felix might have to take pay-cut which could help the club in registering them. Another option is to ask the parent club like Manchester City in Cancelo’s case to terminate their current contracts and sign them for free while also registering them for lower salaries.

It will be a summer of fresh starts for Barcelona as they try to challenge Real Madrid at the peak of their powers with plans already set for the transfer window.

It will be a summer of fresh starts for Barcelona as they try to challenge Real Madrid at the peak of their powers with plans already set for the transfer window. While the club is fighting with financial constraints which led to the sacking of head coach Xavi Hernandez after the 2023-24 season, it now plans to revive its fortunes and will look to wrap the transfer business early. Part of that plan includes keeping both Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix at the club who were on-loan at Barcelona. Hansi Flick gives green light After Xavi's sacking, the Catalonian giants board wasted no time in appointing Hansi Flick as their new manager. The new manager has given the green light to keep both Cancelo and Fleix at the club while their parent sides are already in negotiation to get rid of them on the wage bill. However, the club will have to tackle Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations of La Liga and UEFA which could make things a little complicated. As things stand, Barcelona can’t register their new signing before they sell players or agree to sign them on lower salaries. This means the club will have to sell players or loan them out with their salaries covered by the new club. Last season Barcelona had to loan out Ansu Fati and sell Ousmane Dembélé to create space for new arrivals. Barcelona did not spend a penny on the big three arrivals of Cancelo, Felix and İlkay Gündoğan with the latter being a free transfer from Manchester City. ALSO READ | French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz terms Jannik Sinner 'best in the world' ahead of semifinal clash What needs to happen for Cancelo, Felix to stay? Reports have stated that Barcelona’s current financial situation has seen them unable to register new manager Flick with La Liga. For Cancelo and Felix to stay, the club needs to again sell homegrown players or loan them out to create space on the balance sheet. Selling homegrown players offers the best deal as they would account for zero loss on the balance sheet. If the wage bill is still not fixed, both Cancelo and Felix might have to take pay-cut which could help the club in registering them. Another option is to ask the parent club like Manchester City in Cancelo’s case to terminate their current contracts and sign them for free while also registering them for lower salaries.

Barcelona transfer news: Hansi Flick shows green light to Cancelo, Felix to stay at club but faces THIS issue

Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday.

"Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement for the loan of player Joao Felix until June 30, 2024. There is no option to buy," said the Catalan club in a statement, before then announcing Cancelo's arrival.

Barcelona loaned winger Ansu Fati to Brighton and defender Clement Lenglet to Aston Villa earlier Friday to help create room to accommodate their new arrivals on the wage bill and register the players with La Liga, who have strict financial fair play rules.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-lia-side-getafe-signs-controversial-manchester-united-striker-mason-greenwood-on-loan-on-deadline-day-631576">La Liga side Getafe signs controversial Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood on loan on deadline day</a>

The Catalans also sold winger Ez Abde to Real Betis for 7.5 million euros ($8.1 million), keeping an option to buy him back and 50 percent of the value of his next sale, and loaned defender Eric Garcia to Girona.

Felix became one of the most expensive players in history when Atletico Madrid signed him from Benfica in 2019 for 126 million euros ($136 million) at just 19 years old.

The Portuguese forward, 23, failed to find consistent form in the Spanish capital and Atletico loaned him to Chelsea last season, where he also struggled. Felix has spoken out about his desire to play for Barcelona in the past.

"The club publicly expresses their gratitude to the player for the financial effort made (to join) and his desire to wear the Barca shirt," added Barcelona.

Atletico said Felix has signed a two-year contract extension, until 2029.

Barcelona then confirmed the arrival of Cancelo on loan from Manchester City, also with no option to buy.

The club needed a specialist right-back, using central defender Jules Kounde in that position for the majority of last season.

Cancelo, 29, fell out of favour at Manchester City last season, joining Bayern Munich on loan in January.

The Portugal international was pivotal for City coach Pep Guardiola in previous years as he played an important role in two Premier League triumphs. Cancelo signed a five-year deal with City in February 2022 but less than a year later Guardiola sent him to Bayern.

Barcelona have had a busy transfer window, signing Ilkay Gundogan, Oriol Romeu and Inigo Martinez, while Ousmane Dembele, Franck Kessie and others departed.

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Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday.

Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday. "Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement for the loan of player Joao Felix until June 30, 2024. There is no option to buy," said the Catalan club in a statement, before then announcing Cancelo's arrival. Barcelona loaned winger Ansu Fati to Brighton and defender Clement Lenglet to Aston Villa earlier Friday to help create room to accommodate their new arrivals on the wage bill and register the players with La Liga, who have strict financial fair play rules. ALSO READ: La Liga side Getafe signs controversial Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood on loan on deadline day The Catalans also sold winger Ez Abde to Real Betis for 7.5 million euros ($8.1 million), keeping an option to buy him back and 50 percent of the value of his next sale, and loaned defender Eric Garcia to Girona. Felix became one of the most expensive players in history when Atletico Madrid signed him from Benfica in 2019 for 126 million euros ($136 million) at just 19 years old. The Portuguese forward, 23, failed to find consistent form in the Spanish capital and Atletico loaned him to Chelsea last season, where he also struggled. Felix has spoken out about his desire to play for Barcelona in the past. "The club publicly expresses their gratitude to the player for the financial effort made (to join) and his desire to wear the Barca shirt," added Barcelona. Atletico said Felix has signed a two-year contract extension, until 2029. Barcelona then confirmed the arrival of Cancelo on loan from Manchester City, also with no option to buy. The club needed a specialist right-back, using central defender Jules Kounde in that position for the majority of last season. Cancelo, 29, fell out of favour at Manchester City last season, joining Bayern Munich on loan in January. The Portugal international was pivotal for City coach Pep Guardiola in previous years as he played an important role in two Premier League triumphs. Cancelo signed a five-year deal with City in February 2022 but less than a year later Guardiola sent him to Bayern. Barcelona have had a busy transfer window, signing Ilkay Gundogan, Oriol Romeu and Inigo Martinez, while Ousmane Dembele, Franck Kessie and others departed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Football Transfer News: Barcelona bolster squad with dual signing of Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan

FC Barcelona and Girona FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Oriol Romeu. The player will sign a contract with the Club for the next three seasons, until 2026, and his buy-out clause is set at 400 million euros, confirmed the club on their website.

Oriol Romeu returns to the Club for a second time after arriving at La Masia in 2004 to form part of the FC Barcelona youth set-up. The midfielder from Ulldecona in Catalonia moved through the categories to form part of the Barca Atletic squad under then-coach Luis Enrique, gaining experience playing in the Second Division of Spanish Football.

Romeu made his first team debut in 2010/11, playing twice that season under Pep Guardiola. At the end of the 2010/11 season, Oriol Romeu headed to London where he joined Chelsea. In his first season, he claimed the Champions League title with the Premier League side before gaining experience via loan spells with Valencia and Stuttgart.

The midfielder returned to England to sign for Southampton where he became a firm favourite with the fans at the Premier League club in 256 appearances over seven seasons.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-chiefs-aim-to-become-ninth-team-to-win-back-to-back-super-bowls-says-qb-patrick-mahomes-617296">NFL: Chiefs aim to become ninth team to win back-to-back Super Bowls, says QB Patrick Mahomes</a>

In September 2022, Oriol Romeu returned to La Liga to join Girona. Over the season he played more than anyone else in Míchel’s side, clocking up 3,042 minutes out on the field. The midfielder’s contribution helped the Catalan club to a comfortable 10th place in the table on their return to the Spanish top flight.

Romeu has great experience and knows the Club from his previous spell as a Blaugrana and the style of play Xavi Hernandez wants to impress on his team. 32 years of age in September, the midfielder has shown what he can do in La Liga and will look to perform right from the off.

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FC Barcelona and Girona FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Oriol Romeu. The player will sign a contract with the Club for the next three seasons, until 2026, and his buy-out clause is set at 400 million euros, confirmed the club on their website.

FC Barcelona and Girona FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Oriol Romeu. The player will sign a contract with the Club for the next three seasons, until 2026, and his buy-out clause is set at 400 million euros, confirmed the club on their website. Oriol Romeu returns to the Club for a second time after arriving at La Masia in 2004 to form part of the FC Barcelona youth set-up. The midfielder from Ulldecona in Catalonia moved through the categories to form part of the Barca Atletic squad under then-coach Luis Enrique, gaining experience playing in the Second Division of Spanish Football. Romeu made his first team debut in 2010/11, playing twice that season under Pep Guardiola. At the end of the 2010/11 season, Oriol Romeu headed to London where he joined Chelsea. In his first season, he claimed the Champions League title with the Premier League side before gaining experience via loan spells with Valencia and Stuttgart. The midfielder returned to England to sign for Southampton where he became a firm favourite with the fans at the Premier League club in 256 appearances over seven seasons. ALSO READ | NFL: Chiefs aim to become ninth team to win back-to-back Super Bowls, says QB Patrick Mahomes In September 2022, Oriol Romeu returned to La Liga to join Girona. Over the season he played more than anyone else in Míchel’s side, clocking up 3,042 minutes out on the field. The midfielder’s contribution helped the Catalan club to a comfortable 10th place in the table on their return to the Spanish top flight. Romeu has great experience and knows the Club from his previous spell as a Blaugrana and the style of play Xavi Hernandez wants to impress on his team. 32 years of age in September, the midfielder has shown what he can do in La Liga and will look to perform right from the off. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football Transfers: Barcelona sign Oriol Romeu from Girona; Joao Felix also hints at move

Portuguese youngster Joao Felix has revealed why he sought a loan move from Atletico Madrid to Chelsea at the beginning of the winter transfer window. Felix said he was trying to be someone else while playing in Atletico coach Diego Simeone's system.

Portuguese youngster Joao Felix has revealed why he sought a loan move from Atletico Madrid to Chelsea at the beginning of the winter transfer window. Felix said he was trying to be someone else while playing in Atletico coach Diego Simeone's system. "I had been looking for a change of scenery for some time because it was difficult for me to get used to the way of playing," Felix said in an interview with Spanish newspaper AS. "I left because my head was full of the fact I was trying and not being able to. It had to be in this transfer window and I think it has been good for Atletico and for me too." WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × Commending Simeone for his style of play, Felix said the Spanish coach saw the game differently than others. However, he added that Simeone's idea was to 'suffer' on the pitch. "He is a very good coach. He has his way of understanding and seeing football that others don't have. That's good for some and bad for others. It depends on each person," he said. "It's basically to suffer on the pitch. It is to be suffering, have an opportunity and score it. That's his way of competing. It's not bad but it's different to other coaches." WATCH: Atletico Madrid fans hurl vile racist chants at Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr Felix's loan move to Chelsea was not off to the greatest of starts as he was sent off for a straight red card following a dangerous tackle on Fulham's Kenny Tete. A three-match ban was imposed by the English FA and the Portuguese is yet to find consistent playing time in the XI. Read more: Chelsea flounder at Craven Cottage as Felix receives a red card on Premier League debut What is Simeone's playing style? While most modern managers play an aggressive, front-foot brand of football to impose themselves on the opposition, Simeone has been infamous for playing defensive football. The entire team defends resolutely with the goals coming from counter-attacking opportunities. This has been Simeone's philosophy from the beginning, which has yielded considerable He is one of the only managers to have broken the hegemony of Barcelona and Real Madrid in the last decade or so to win La Liga twice. It was under Simeone's reign that Atletico twice reached the UEFA Champions League final. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I left because...': Joao Felix reveals why he left Simeone's 'suffering' Atletico Madrid

Five strikers Manchester United can sign this window if Cristiano Ronaldo leaves

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament:

<h2>- Phil Foden -</h2>

The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21. He is coming off a superb season at Manchester City in which he starred in Pep Guardiola's Premier League title-winning side, regularly cutting in from the left flank and contributing 16 goals in all competitions.

Foden, who likes to spend his free time fishing with his father, made his full England debut last September and scored his first goals against Iceland in the Nations League in November.

<h2>- Pedri -</h2>

Following in the footsteps of the likes of Juan Carlos Valeron, David Silva and Pedro Rodriguez before him, Pedri is the latest star to emerge from the Canary Islands and break into the Spain set-up.

The slight 18-year-old midfielder with the silky touch, who comes from Tenerife, joined Barcelona last year from Las Palmas. Growing up he modelled himself on Andres Iniesta and he wasted little time establishing himself at the Camp Nou, playing in all but one game in La Liga for Barca in the season just finished. He made his Spain debut in a World Cup qualifier against Greece in March.

<h2>- Jamal Musiala -</h2>

The 18-year-old Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder was born in Stuttgart but could have been lining up for England at the Euro. His father is British-Nigerian and he moved to England with his family aged seven. He has represented both Germany and England at youth level too. "I have a heart for Germany and a heart for England," he told The Athletic earlier this year.

However, he left the Chelsea academy set-up to join Bayern in 2019 and committed his international future to Germany in February, just before signing a new five-year deal at his club. Shortly after that he was given his full Germany debut in a World Cup qualifier against Iceland.

<h2>- Matthijs de Ligt -</h2>

Centre-back De Ligt is still just 21 but his importance to the Netherlands cannot be understated, especially with Virgil van Dijk ruled out of the Euro. That explains the concern for his fitness when he appeared to suffer a groin injury in training at the weekend.

Dutch coach Frank de Boer needs De Ligt, who captained Ajax in the Champions League aged just 19, starring in the side that got to the semi-finals of that competition in 2019 before being sold to Juventus in a world-record deal for a defender, the fee an initial 75 million euros ($84.2m).&nbsp;

A symbol of the new Dutch generation after the Oranje missed both Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, De Ligt made his full international debut as a 17-year-old.&nbsp;

<h2>- Jeremy Doku -</h2>

The Belgian squad is full of established stars these days, but amid concern for the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne and the form of Eden Hazard, Doku could have a notable role to play for Roberto Martinez's side.&nbsp;

The winger who only recently turned 19 broke through at Anderlecht and made his full Belgium debut last September, just before Rennes paid a club record 26 million euros ($31.6m) to sign him. Doku needed time to adapt to his new surroundings but finished the season strongly in France and can be a threat on either flank.

<h2>- Joao Felix -</h2>

Felix, 21, became one of the five most expensive players in history when still a teenager after Atletico Madrid agreed to pay 126 million euros ($142m) to sign him from Benfica in 2019.

Capable of playing on either flank or through the middle in attack, Felix broke through at Benfica and is fresh from helping Atletico win La Liga. He is also a symbol of the new Portuguese generation that will support Cristiano Ronaldo at this Euro as Fernando Santos' team defend the title they won in France in 2016.

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament: - Phil Foden - The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21.

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament: - Phil Foden - The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21. He is coming off a superb season at Manchester City in which he starred in Pep Guardiola's Premier League title-winning side, regularly cutting in from the left flank and contributing 16 goals in all competitions. Foden, who likes to spend his free time fishing with his father, made his full England debut last September and scored his first goals against Iceland in the Nations League in November. - Pedri - Following in the footsteps of the likes of Juan Carlos Valeron, David Silva and Pedro Rodriguez before him, Pedri is the latest star to emerge from the Canary Islands and break into the Spain set-up. The slight 18-year-old midfielder with the silky touch, who comes from Tenerife, joined Barcelona last year from Las Palmas. Growing up he modelled himself on Andres Iniesta and he wasted little time establishing himself at the Camp Nou, playing in all but one game in La Liga for Barca in the season just finished. He made his Spain debut in a World Cup qualifier against Greece in March. - Jamal Musiala - The 18-year-old Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder was born in Stuttgart but could have been lining up for England at the Euro. His father is British-Nigerian and he moved to England with his family aged seven. He has represented both Germany and England at youth level too. "I have a heart for Germany and a heart for England," he told The Athletic earlier this year. However, he left the Chelsea academy set-up to join Bayern in 2019 and committed his international future to Germany in February, just before signing a new five-year deal at his club. Shortly after that he was given his full Germany debut in a World Cup qualifier against Iceland. - Matthijs de Ligt - Centre-back De Ligt is still just 21 but his importance to the Netherlands cannot be understated, especially with Virgil van Dijk ruled out of the Euro. That explains the concern for his fitness when he appeared to suffer a groin injury in training at the weekend. Dutch coach Frank de Boer needs De Ligt, who captained Ajax in the Champions League aged just 19, starring in the side that got to the semi-finals of that competition in 2019 before being sold to Juventus in a world-record deal for a defender, the fee an initial 75 million euros ($84.2m). A symbol of the new Dutch generation after the Oranje missed both Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, De Ligt made his full international debut as a 17-year-old. - Jeremy Doku - The Belgian squad is full of established stars these days, but amid concern for the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne and the form of Eden Hazard, Doku could have a notable role to play for Roberto Martinez's side. The winger who only recently turned 19 broke through at Anderlecht and made his full Belgium debut last September, just before Rennes paid a club record 26 million euros ($31.6m) to sign him. Doku needed time to adapt to his new surroundings but finished the season strongly in France and can be a threat on either flank. - Joao Felix - Felix, 21, became one of the five most expensive players in history when still a teenager after Atletico Madrid agreed to pay 126 million euros ($142m) to sign him from Benfica in 2019. Capable of playing on either flank or through the middle in attack, Felix broke through at Benfica and is fresh from helping Atletico win La Liga. He is also a symbol of the new Portuguese generation that will support Cristiano Ronaldo at this Euro as Fernando Santos' team defend the title they won in France in 2016.

Football: From Foden to Felix - Six young stars to watch at Euro 2020

Atletico Madrid jumped to the top of La Liga on Saturday with a 4-0 thrashing of Cadiz after Lionel Messi came on at half-time to rescue Barcelona against Real Betis.

Atletico claimed first place, ahead of Real Sociedad on goal difference, with the excellent Joao Felix scoring twice in another impressive victory for Diego Simeone's side.&nbsp;

Luis Suarez and Marcos Llorente were also on target as Atletico made it five wins and two draws from their opening seven games and underlined their status as genuine title contenders.

They have scored 17 goals and conceded just two in that time.

After the international break, Atleti play at home to Barcelona, when Suarez and Antoine Griezmann will be up against their former clubs.

But while Suarez has enjoyed a superb start for Atletico, scoring five goals already, Griezmann continues to struggle in the shadow of Messi at Camp Nou.

Messi had been rested by Ronald Koeman but was thrown on with the game in the balance after Griezmann missed a penalty, before Betis' Antonio Sanabria cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's opener.&nbsp;

Within four minutes of his introduction, Messi gave Griezmann an open goal with a superb dummy and then scored twice himself, the first a penalty that saw Betis' Aissa Mandi sent off for a handball on the line.&nbsp;

In between, Loren Moron had given Betis brief hope but Messi's second and a late strike from Pedri ensured Barcelona ended their four-match winless run and climbed to eighth in La Liga.&nbsp;

Messi also gave a resounding answer to those suggesting his performances this season have been evidence of decline.&nbsp;

"Leo finished the match against Kiev with some problems," said Koeman. "He wasn't in a position to play in the first half but we talked about him being on the bench and said he would come on if he felt good.&nbsp;

"He's a player who in principle always plays, but today he didn't because of some minor problems."

Griezmann also got his goal with Messi on the pitch but was unable to prove a point without him.

<h2>- Gloomy Griezmann -&nbsp;</h2>

Despite a lively opening half an hour, Griezmann missed a penalty before Messi scored his and Griezmann was eventually substituted, pictured sat in the stands with a gloomy expression while Barca romped to victory.&nbsp;

"I hope he continues to work like he is working," said Koeman. "To miss opportunities you have to be there. We must highlight his character, to keep working. He knows perfectly well that he has missed a penalty, and some chances, but it means he is always there to score."

Barca broke through after 22 minutes when Dembele cut inside onto his left foot before hammering a finish past Claudio Bravo for his first league goal in 13 months.&nbsp;

Mandi conceded a penalty after sliding in on Ansu but Griezmann missed, a tame shot easily saved by Bravo, before Betis scored, Sanabria finishing after Cristian Tello had again surged clear down the left.&nbsp;

Messi came on and four minutes later Barca were ahead, the Argentinian scuttling to meet Jordi Alba's cross at the front post, only to step over the ball, fooling his marker and the goalkeeper, to leave Griezmann with an open net.&nbsp;

Messi made it 3-1 with a penalty, won after his pass had set up Dembele for a shot that was blocked on the line by the arm of Mandi, who was sent off.&nbsp;

Moron gave Betis hope with 17 minutes left but Messi made sure, latching onto Sergi Roberto's flick and smashing in his second and Barca's fourth. Pedri made it five in injury-time.&nbsp;

Sevilla later beat Osasuna 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Lucas Ocampos, that moves them up to 11th.

It is only the second time Sevilla have managed back-to-back wins this season, after a 3-2 victory over Krasnodar on Wednesday in the Champions League.

Atletico Madrid jumped to the top of La Liga on Saturday with a 4-0 thrashing of Cadiz after Lionel Messi came on at half-time to rescue Barcelona against Real Betis.

Atletico Madrid jumped to the top of La Liga on Saturday with a 4-0 thrashing of Cadiz after Lionel Messi came on at half-time to rescue Barcelona against Real Betis. Atletico claimed first place, ahead of Real Sociedad on goal difference, with the excellent Joao Felix scoring twice in another impressive victory for Diego Simeone's side. Luis Suarez and Marcos Llorente were also on target as Atletico made it five wins and two draws from their opening seven games and underlined their status as genuine title contenders. They have scored 17 goals and conceded just two in that time. After the international break, Atleti play at home to Barcelona, when Suarez and Antoine Griezmann will be up against their former clubs. But while Suarez has enjoyed a superb start for Atletico, scoring five goals already, Griezmann continues to struggle in the shadow of Messi at Camp Nou. Messi had been rested by Ronald Koeman but was thrown on with the game in the balance after Griezmann missed a penalty, before Betis' Antonio Sanabria cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's opener. Within four minutes of his introduction, Messi gave Griezmann an open goal with a superb dummy and then scored twice himself, the first a penalty that saw Betis' Aissa Mandi sent off for a handball on the line. In between, Loren Moron had given Betis brief hope but Messi's second and a late strike from Pedri ensured Barcelona ended their four-match winless run and climbed to eighth in La Liga. Messi also gave a resounding answer to those suggesting his performances this season have been evidence of decline. "Leo finished the match against Kiev with some problems," said Koeman. "He wasn't in a position to play in the first half but we talked about him being on the bench and said he would come on if he felt good. "He's a player who in principle always plays, but today he didn't because of some minor problems." Griezmann also got his goal with Messi on the pitch but was unable to prove a point without him. - Gloomy Griezmann - Despite a lively opening half an hour, Griezmann missed a penalty before Messi scored his and Griezmann was eventually substituted, pictured sat in the stands with a gloomy expression while Barca romped to victory. "I hope he continues to work like he is working," said Koeman. "To miss opportunities you have to be there. We must highlight his character, to keep working. He knows perfectly well that he has missed a penalty, and some chances, but it means he is always there to score." Barca broke through after 22 minutes when Dembele cut inside onto his left foot before hammering a finish past Claudio Bravo for his first league goal in 13 months. Mandi conceded a penalty after sliding in on Ansu but Griezmann missed, a tame shot easily saved by Bravo, before Betis scored, Sanabria finishing after Cristian Tello had again surged clear down the left. Messi came on and four minutes later Barca were ahead, the Argentinian scuttling to meet Jordi Alba's cross at the front post, only to step over the ball, fooling his marker and the goalkeeper, to leave Griezmann with an open net. Messi made it 3-1 with a penalty, won after his pass had set up Dembele for a shot that was blocked on the line by the arm of Mandi, who was sent off. Moron gave Betis hope with 17 minutes left but Messi made sure, latching onto Sergi Roberto's flick and smashing in his second and Barca's fourth. Pedri made it five in injury-time. Sevilla later beat Osasuna 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Lucas Ocampos, that moves them up to 11th. It is only the second time Sevilla have managed back-to-back wins this season, after a 3-2 victory over Krasnodar on Wednesday in the Champions League.

Atletico go top after Messi rescues Barca off the bench

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-lionel-messi-sinks-atletico-as-barcelona-return-to-the-top-265656">Atletico Madrid</a> comfortably beat Lokomotiv Moscow 2-0 at home on Wednesday to end a barren run of four games without a win and advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League for the sixth time in seven years.

Club record signing Joao Felix calmly converted a penalty to put Diego Simeone's side ahead in the 17th minute after Kieran Trippier had squandered an opportunity from the spot, while defender Felipe made sure of the win with a volley in the 54th.

The victory meant Atletico finished second in Group D with 10 points behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/martinez-fires-inter-top-of-serie-a-as-juventus-slip-up-265660">Juventus</a> who ended on 16 by winning 2-0 at Bayer Leverkusen.

"We had gone too long without winning and we're glad to finally be able to celebrate with our supporters," Atletico captain Koke told reporters.

"From the start, we tried to take the game to them and went looking for a goal and this time we were able to score a couple."

Atletico had a slender lead of one point over Leverkusen heading into their final match and only a victory would guarantee they remained in Europe's top competition, which they narrowly missed out on winning in 2014 and 2016.

It seemed a simple enough task except for the fact Atletico had won only one of their previous eight games in all competitions and had failed to score in their last three outings despite firing 50 shots at goal.

They got off to an ideal start as they were awarded a penalty with the game less than a minute old when Portugal forward Felix shuffled into the area and was felled by visiting goalkeeper Anton Kochenkov.

England defender Trippier chose power over placement and Kochenkov beat the shot away with his left hand, but Atletico were not discouraged by the early mishap and earned a second penalty for a handball after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rule-makers-look-at-ways-of-providing-more-information-about-var-decisions-266170">VAR review</a>.

Felix, their 126-million-euro signing, sent Kochenkov the wrong way from the spot and Atletico rarely looked back, eventually sealing the win through Felipe's goal after Morata had an effort chalked off for offside after a VAR review.

"We really needed a victory like this because we have been playing well recently but our results have not been good," added Koke.

"We're going to be a difficult opponent for anyone in the next round."

Atletico Madrid comfortably beat Lokomotiv Moscow 2-0 at home on Wednesday to end a barren run of four games without a win and advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League for the sixth time in seven years.

Atletico Madrid comfortably beat Lokomotiv Moscow 2-0 at home on Wednesday to end a barren run of four games without a win and advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League for the sixth time in seven years. Club record signing Joao Felix calmly converted a penalty to put Diego Simeone's side ahead in the 17th minute after Kieran Trippier had squandered an opportunity from the spot, while defender Felipe made sure of the win with a volley in the 54th. The victory meant Atletico finished second in Group D with 10 points behind Juventus who ended on 16 by winning 2-0 at Bayer Leverkusen. "We had gone too long without winning and we're glad to finally be able to celebrate with our supporters," Atletico captain Koke told reporters. "From the start, we tried to take the game to them and went looking for a goal and this time we were able to score a couple." Atletico had a slender lead of one point over Leverkusen heading into their final match and only a victory would guarantee they remained in Europe's top competition, which they narrowly missed out on winning in 2014 and 2016. It seemed a simple enough task except for the fact Atletico had won only one of their previous eight games in all competitions and had failed to score in their last three outings despite firing 50 shots at goal. They got off to an ideal start as they were awarded a penalty with the game less than a minute old when Portugal forward Felix shuffled into the area and was felled by visiting goalkeeper Anton Kochenkov. England defender Trippier chose power over placement and Kochenkov beat the shot away with his left hand, but Atletico were not discouraged by the early mishap and earned a second penalty for a handball after a VAR review. Felix, their 126-million-euro signing, sent Kochenkov the wrong way from the spot and Atletico rarely looked back, eventually sealing the win through Felipe's goal after Morata had an effort chalked off for offside after a VAR review. "We really needed a victory like this because we have been playing well recently but our results have not been good," added Koke. "We're going to be a difficult opponent for anyone in the next round."

Atletico Madrid stroll into Champions League knockouts

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