Joao Cancelo is on the verge of wearing the Blaugrana shirt again. According to various reports, FC Barcelona and Al Hilal have reached a preliminary agreement for the Portuguese defender to rejoin Barça on loan until the end of the season. For Cancelo, the move represents not just a return to familiar surroundings but a renewed opportunity to help strengthen a team looking to regain its defensive balance under Hansi Flick.
Agreement Reached: Cancelo Wants to Be Back
Both clubs, as well as Cancelo himself, have agreed on the structure of the deal. Barcelona will cover around five million euros of the defender’s salary. That amount was made possible by Andreas Christensen’s long-term injury, which frees up space on the wage bill. Now, all that remains is for the agreement to be made official on paper, confirming the reunion between the Portuguese full-back and the Catalan giants.
Misses the Supercopa, But Ready for the Season Push
Despite optimism surrounding the transfer, Cancelo is not expected to arrive in time to feature in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club. He also won’t be available for a potential final against Atlético Madrid or Real Madrid. His registration depends on Christensen being officially removed from the squad list. Once completed, Cancelo could either join the squad in Saudi Arabia, where he is currently located, or report directly to the team in Barcelona.
Flick’s Approval: A Tactical Win
Hansi Flick’s green light was decisive. After Christensen’s injury, the coach prioritized defensive reinforcements but found few affordable options in the market. Cancelo’s versatility and previous experience at Barça made him the perfect fit. According to Mundo Deportivo, Flick values Cancelo’s ability to play on both flanks and his experience in top-level competition.
For Flick, adding Cancelo means having every position in defense properly covered. With the Portuguese available, Koundé and Eric García can shift back to their natural central roles, while young talents like Gerard Martín and Balde will continue to grow without excessive pressure.
A Familiar Face with Proven Quality
Cancelo’s first spell at Barça during the 2023–24 season was a success. Arriving from Manchester City, he quickly established himself as a key figure under Xavi Hernández. Over the season, he played 42 matches, logging 3,317 minutes across both full-back positions and even stepping into midfield or wing roles when needed.
His offensive contribution was equally impressive. Four goals and five assists across all competitions – a clear sign of his attacking instinct and adaptability. His goals against Porto, Napoli, Betis, and Celta remain fresh in fans’ memories, symbolizing his blend of technique and determination.
Why Cancelo’s Return Matters
For Barcelona, this is more than a convenient short-term fix. It’s a strategic move that restores balance, versatility, and leadership to a defense that has been stretched by injuries. For Flick, it’s a tactical reinforcement that fits perfectly with his fluid, dynamic football philosophy. And for Cancelo, it’s a chance to finish what he started – to prove once again that he belongs at the top level, and that his heart beats in Blaugrana colors.
Bottom line
Joao Cancelo’s return is a win-win scenario for Barça. It strengthens the defense, fits Flick’s tactical system, and rekindles the connection between a player and a club that understand each other perfectly. Fans have every reason to be excited – the Portuguese full-back is coming home.
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