In a recent interview with Caught offside, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Barcelona and their pursuit of Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo. Romano said,
“Discussions also continue over the possibility of bringing Joao Cancelo back to Barca. He’s high on their list and it will depend on Manchester City and Barca talks; not on the player as he’s clearly open to joining the club and returning in Spain. Talks will follow, so let’s see what happens,”
Cancelo’s Impressive Loan Spell At The Nou Camp Last Season
The Portugal international had a great loan spell at Barcelona as he put in a string of impressive displays for them in La Liga. Cancelo featured in 42 matches for the Catalan outfit last season, netting four goals and picking up five assists in all competitions.
The 30-year-old has been a solid performer on the right flank based on his average of 2.0 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.1 key passes and 1.9 dribbles per game in La Liga football. He has even been tidy when interchanging possession with his teammates after making 84.6% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Spanish football (stats via whoscored).
What Should Barcelona Boss Hansi Flick Do With Regards To Cancelo?
Cancelo is a decent tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his side inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when required but can be caught out of position at times on the defensive end of the field.
The Portuguese talent can strike the ball with venom from long range and has got the vision to engineer some meaningful openings for his teammates in the final third. He can even make a few promising runs with the ball out on the flanks.
Cancelo is primarily a right-back but can also operate as a centre-back if needed. He proved his worth as an important member of Barcelona‘s squad last season. Therefore, Barca boss Hansi Flick would be wise to try everything in his power to bring him back to the Nou Camp either on loan or permanently this month.
At 30, Cancelo has still got a few good seasons left in him to play at his best. Thus, the Catalan club should focus on snapping him up in this summer transfer window.
