"Cristiano is Cristiano; I'm João Félix" - Atlético's most expensive signing unveiled
The Portuguese forward became the most expensive signing in Atlético's history - something he says doesn't increase the pressure on him.
João Félix was officially presented by Atlético de Madrid this afternoon - not long after the player had completed his first training session with the Rojiblancos in Los Ángeles de San Rafael. The 19-year-old is Atlético's most expensive signing in club history and will wear the number 7 shirt which Antoine Griezmann wore during the past five years.
A number of Atleti legends were in attendance to see João Félix unveiled - including Lázaro Albarracín, Antonio Alonso, Clemente Villaverde, Adelardo, Luiz Pereira, Heredia, Solozabal and Paulo Futre.
After being welcomed to the club by president Enrique Cerezo, João Félix answered questions from the media.
Warm welcome
How was your first day as an Atlético player?
I've been well received, I've been welcomed on board and the club and players clearly are keen for to settle in. I hope things continue this way.
Do you feel you have to live up to your price tag?
The prices being paid are just an indicator of the way the market is and that's nothiong to do with me. All I do is focus on playing, doing my job and trying to help the club I play for.
You are the most expensive Portuguese player in history...
I don't pay any attention to the amount of money paid, I just want to do the best possible to help the team.
How do you feel about playing against Real Madrid in the International Champions Cup?
Real Madrid have always been a great club and it'll be nice to play against them. As an Atlético player, it will be special to meet our city rivals. It's also a very good competition which will help us in our preparation for the new season.
Chance meeting
Would you like Atlético to be drawn with Benfica in the Champions League?
I'd like that, as long as both us go through from the group. It'd be nice getting a warm welcome back and seeing my old team mates - they were alway great to me.
How was your send-off at Benfica?
Really special for me, the boss was the one who showed faith in me and I would like to give him a special mention as he's the reason I'm here today. It was difficult saying goodbye, they'll always be in my heart, it's not easy to leave Portugal, but they all wished me the best of luck - they'll be following how I get on and I'll be doing the same with them.
Cristiano chats about his time in Madrid
Did you ask Cristiano for advice?
He's a great player; right now he's the best in the world and maybe even of all-time. When we've been together with the national team he's spoken about Madrid, he really liked the city and now here I am, hoping to make history and be remembered as João Félix. Cristiano is Cristiano and I'm João Félix.
Do you feel any pressure now that Griezmann's leaving?
I disconnect myself from all of that. Sometimes I hear good things, sometimes bad things and I pat little attention to it all, I only want to give the best of myself so that the team can be the best it possibly can.