Returning to FC Barcelona this summer after a break in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal, João Cancelo has finally achieved a return that he had been hoping for for many years. Determined to return to the highest European level and the demanding pace of a European great, the Portuguese full-back made important concessions to put on the Blaugrana jersey again. A choice of the heart guided by his desire to return to Barça to prove that he remains one of the best in his position after a first six-month loan which was successful under the orders of Hansi Flick.
After a convincing half-season, Cancelo continues and shows that he still has something under his belt. Author of a particularly convincing month of September, the Portuguese has once again established himself as an essential cog in the Catalan eleven. Aligned from the start in three of the last four matches, he has already opened his goal counter while recovering the starting place in the right lane, relegating the young Xavi Espart to the bench. A rapid rise in power which confirms its perfect adaptation to the Barcelona project.
Joao Cancelo became a Portugal executive
Following on from his club performances, Cancelo signed a glittering international break in the colors of Portugal, piling up two goals in his last two appearances with the Seleçao das Quinas. A return to the forefront which materialized this Sunday evening at the Dragão stadium, where he delivered a real recital rewarded with the title of man of the match against Norway (2-1). Despite a warning conceded in the 12th minute in the face of the constant threat from Nusa, the full-back showed remarkable control and serenity to tame his lane without ever dropping his intensity. Under the orders of Jorge Jesus, the former Manchester City and Juventus Turin enjoys tactical freedom which allows him to initiate certain attacks and dictate the tempo from midfield as was the case under Pep Guardiola at City.
After alerting the Norwegian defense in the 22nd minute with a heavy strike that was narrowly deflected, he capsized the Portuguese enclosure in the 38th minute, just two minutes after the opponent opened the scoring, by scoring a sumptuous goal with a beautiful volley. A gesture of pure class which confirms the great confidence which animates him at this moment. Author of a masterclass, Cancelo has been widely acclaimed by the Portuguese press. WhileIn Bola highlights the virtuosity of Cancelo, social networks were excited about his performance which recalls the player’s heyday before his exodus to the Gulf.
