‘We don’t miss Joao Felix’ – Maresca claims after player hints at permanent Milan move

Joao Felix has opened up about his future at Chelsea after making a promising start to his loan spell at AC Milan.

The Portuguese forward, who joined Milan on a season-long loan in January for a reported £5 million fee, had struggled for consistent game time at Chelsea despite scoring seven goals in 20 appearances.

After being limited to just three Premier League starts, he opted for a move to Serie A, where he has hit the ground running, scoring on his debut in a 3-1 victory over Roma.

Felix has now suggested he could extend his stay in Milan beyond the current season.

“For now, I’m on loan until June, we’ll see how it goes,” Felix told reporters. “I’m liking everything: the club, the people, the infrastructure.

“My family and I have received a great welcome, and I want to be in a place where I feel good. Things can change in football, but if there’s the chance to stay here, I’d like that.”

Felix also spoke about his admiration for Brazilian legend Kaka, who enjoyed a decorated spell at Milan.

“My favourite player has always been Kaka,” he said. “I’ve spoken about him in the past and met him in the United States where we took part in an interview together.

“He is my idol, but I can’t make comparisons between myself and him. I would also like to make history at AC Milan.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca appears unfazed by Felix’s departure, despite the club’s attacking struggles, including a disappointing FA Cup exit against Brighton.

“I don’t think we miss Joao,” Maresca said. “He is happy at AC Milan, and we are happy that he is happy there.”