Joao Cancelo Transparent About His Future at Barcelona
Barcelona’s Joao Cancelo has proven to be an indispensable player under Xavi Hernandez’s management, consistently demonstrating commitment and resilience on the field. The Portuguese full-back, a key figure whenever in good physical condition, has made it clear that he would love to continue his journey with Barcelona.
In an interview with ‘La Gazzetta dello Sport’ ahead of the crucial Champions League round of 16 second-leg clash against Napoli, Cancelo reiterated his desire to stay at Barcelona. He expressed, “I still don’t know what will happen, but I want to stay at Barcelona. I grew up with Ronaldinho as my idol, and I am very proud to wear this shirt.” Despite facing challenges during his first year at the club, Cancelo publicly stated his wish to remain in the Catalan capital.
Reflecting on Barcelona’s tumultuous season, Cancelo believes that a victory against Napoli would be a statement. “It has not been an easy year. Barcelona is a very particular club; the coach said he will leave at the end of the season, we’ve had ups and downs, and a difficult dynamic to explain… Football, however, always gives you the chance to redeem yourself,” he pointed out. “Like in life, in football, there are good moments and less good ones. We have to stay positive and united,” he added.
Discussing the upcoming continental clash to be resolved at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys de Montjuïc, Joao praised Napoli, describing them as a “neighborhood team, popular, with deep roots in the city.” He expressed regret over Barcelona not securing a better result in the first leg, acknowledging the equal footing both teams now have.
As for Cancelo’s future at Barcelona, uncertainties loom. Both the player and the club aspire to extend their association beyond the agreed-upon loan period from Manchester City. While City is open to facilitating Cancelo’s departure, the current scenario suggests a permanent transfer. Barcelona’s challenging financial situation adds complexity to the negotiations, requiring strategic maneuvers by the sporting directorate led by Deco to bring in top-tier players and retain key assets like Cancelo within the constraints of financial fair play.
