Flick gives his approval for Barcelona veteran star’s continuity beyond this season
Flick gives his approval for Barcelona veteran star’s continuity beyond this season Joao Cancelo returned to FC Barcelona in the January transfer window for a second loan spell, arriving from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. The 31-year-old Portuguese veteran was not exactly a priority target for Barça manager Hansi Flick, who wanted a new centre-back instead. But the club’s financial condition and the market opportunity with the former Manchester City ace convinced him to give his ‘OK’ to the operation.
Despite being off to a slow start in Catalonia, the full-back has gained a lot of prominence in Flick’s setup in recent weeks. Permanent move on the cards? So much so that SPORT now reports that Flick has given his approval for Cancelo to remain at Barcelona beyond the summer.
Any move, though, would depend on the financial conditions being feasible for the club. Cancelo returned to Barça driven by his determination to wear the club’s colours. He saw an opportunity following the injury to Andreas Christensen and offered himself to the club, accepting a reduction in his salary.
As mentioned earlier, he had a slow and challenging start, with minutes not fully forthcoming. But Cancelo has grown in stature in recent weeks, with Flick now highly satisfied with the full-back’s performances, valuing his versatility in particular. Set to continue beyond this season?
(Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) Cancelo has featured more frequently on the left side due to the physical issues affecting Alejandro Balde. His familiarity with the club, system, and dressing room has allowed him to adapt quickly. The move has benefited all parties: Barcelona gained an immediate-impact player, while Cancelo is playing at his preferred club and preparing for the World Cup at a high competitive level.