Cancelo rejoins Barcelona on loan deal

João Cancelo has returned to Barcelona on a second loan spell, with the Portuguese defender set to provide cover across the backline for the remainder of the season. 

The move was confirmed this week after Andreas Christensen was ruled out for the next four months, prompting the club to act quickly in the January window.

Cancelo had been close to joining Inter after deciding to leave Al-Hilal, but Barcelona’s late interest changed his plans. 

Speaking after his presentation, the 31-year-old admitted the situation took him by surprise, explaining that once sporting director Deco made contact, a return to Camp Nou became his priority. Cancelo said he was willing to wait for Barcelona, describing the club as his first option.

The full-back has joined on a deal until the end of the season, and while he previously expressed a desire to stay at Barcelona permanently, he was cautious when asked about his long-term future. 

Cancelo pointed to his existing contract with Al-Hilal, stressing that his focus is on enjoying his football, performing well, and helping the team compete for titles during his loan spell.

Reflecting on his previous time at the club, Cancelo believes the current squad is stronger than when he last wore the Barcelona shirt. 

He noted that several younger players have matured significantly and feels the team has developed over the past 18 months.

Although he arrived during Xavi Hernández’s final season and did not previously work under Hansi Flick, Cancelo said he has already spoken with the German coach.

Cancelo also addressed questions surrounding his role and defensive reliability. He confirmed he is comfortable playing on either flank and expects to compete with Alejandro Balde, Gerard Martín, and Jules Koundé for minutes. 

Acknowledging past criticism of his defending, Cancelo said he accepts scrutiny as part of football and is committed to improving while contributing to the team’s attacking style.

The defender has been included in Barcelona’s squad for Thursday’s Copa del Rey round-of-16 tie against Racing Santander, giving Flick an additional rotational option during a congested run of fixtures. 

However, Cancelo faces the challenge of regaining match sharpness, having not played competitively for Al-Hilal since September.