After a turbulent spell in England and Italy, Joao Felix has candidly opened up about a heartfelt desire: returning home to Benfica.
Chelsea striker reveals heartfelt wish: “I want to go home” to Benfica
The 25‑year‑old Chelsea forward—currently out on loan at AC Milan—spoke emotionally about the pull of his boyhood club.
“Benfica is my favourite team. It’s my home. One day I will return. I don’t know if it’s now or in a few years, but if it were now I would be very happy,” he told Tribuna.com, adding that two options lie ahead:
“either I stay in England or I return to Benfica.”
Benfica coach Bruno Lage has also been vocal about the reunion, emphasising their shared desire—
“Joao has already spoken about this situation. All the players would like to return to Benfica… The financial aspect is very important”—but warned that salary and transfer fee remain major obstacles.
Indeed, financial hurdles loom large. Chelsea values Felix at around €30 million, while Benfica, according to reports, can manage up to €25 million.
More pressing is Felix’s current €8 million annual wage—nearly double what Benfica’s wage structure permits. Any move would require him to accept a significant pay cut.
The emotional side of this story is clear. Felix burst onto the scene at Benfica in 2018–19, scoring 15 goals in 26 games a form that earned him a €126 million move to Atletico Madrid.
Since then, he’s struggled for consistent impact: at Chelsea, he made just twelve appearances this season, scored once, and spent half the campaign on loan at Milan.
This potential homecoming represents more than a return it’s a bid for renaissance. Surrounded by familiar faces and coached by someone who believes in him, Felix could rediscover his confidence and form.
But the numbers must add up: Benfica will need to bridge both fee and salary gaps, and Felix must show willingness to compromise.
As summer transfer discussions heat up, it’s clear: if both hearts and budgets align, this could be a storybook reunion a prodigal son returning to reignite his legacy in red and white.
