“I’m here to fight for a place in the starting XI” - Chelsea star sends warning to Blues teammates following standout display in Conference League
Chelsea forward Joao Felix has signalled his intent to feature regularly after scoring twice for the side in their UEFA Europa Conference League game. The former Atletico Madrid man issued a timely reminder of his quality for the side as they trounced Panathinaikos 4-1 in Athens.
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca made wholesale changes to his squad that travelled to Athens for the Conference League game, with the likes of Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Moises Caicedo left out. Joao Felix made his return to the starting XI, and he showed the manager why he's knocking on his door for regular starts.
Felix spoke with the media after his brace in the game, revealing that he is at Chelsea to do his job, which is to play football. He pointed out that he intends to give the coach selection headaches with his performances ahead of a packed schedule for the side.
He said (via Tribal Football):
"I’m here to fight for a place in the starting XI.
"Obviously, it’s up to the manager to decide who should play each game but when I have the chance, I want to show what I can do.
"I’m doing my job, I’m working hard and doing everything I can when I’m in the side. I was pleased to score my two goals but it’s most important to get the win for the team.
"Now we must rest up because we have two big games against Newcastle coming up. Everyone has to be ready, because the games come around quickly.
"First it’s the Premier League, and then it’s the Carabao Cup, and for sure we will need fresh players because there isn’t much of a gap between games so everyone needs to be ready."
Joao Felix scored in either half to help the Blues secure a convincing win away from home in their first-ever meeting with the Greek club. He also won a penalty in the second half, which was converted by Christopher Nkunku for the fourth goal.
Chelsea keep up fine Conference League form with Panathinaikos thrashing
Chelsea successfully maintained their impressive start to the 2024-25 UEFA Europa Conference League season with a 4-1 win over Panathinaikos. The Blues followed up their 4-2 win over Gent with the win over Panathinaikos to move to the summit of the standings.
Amid heavy rotation, Chelsea had to weather early Panathinaikos pressure before opening the scoring in the 22nd minute through Joao Felix. They had to wait until three minutes into the second half for a second goal, with Mykhailo Mudryk heading home his first of the season.
Felix doubled his tally in the 55th minute, finding the net via a deflection following a pass from Mudryk. The Portuguese forward then won a penalty just before the hour mark, which was expertly dispatched by Christopher Nkunku. Panathinaikos found a consolation goal in the 69th minute when ex-Manchester United forward Facundo Pellistri tapped home a low cross at the far post.