‘He must stay’ – Barcelona players send strong message to Hansi Flick about loanee
He’s impressed since arriving at the club.
MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 04: Hansi Flick, Manager of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 04, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Joao Cancelo put in another impressive showing for Barcelona against Atletico on Saturday night in La Liga as the Catalan giants ran out 2-1 winners and moved seven points clear at the top of the table. The Portugal international had more than a few doubters when he signed on loan in the winter from Al-Hilal but has won over the dressing room and his manager, according to Diario Sport.
The word from players and coach is “he must stay” – with the report also claiming he’s set to be Flick’s first choice left-back for the rest of the campaign. Barcelona are then hoping that a deal can be done for Cancelo to continue at the club after his loan deal expires. Cancelo has spoken about his future recently, admitting he’s not sure where he’ll play next season but that he can’t say no to Benfica or Barcelona.
In the meantime, the full-back will simply look to continue impressing in the first team as Barca continue to chase glory in La Liga and the Champions League.