Joao Cancelo returns to Barcelona in a sensational January loan agreement, while his chosen jersey number is revealed.
The Portuguese star’s familiarity with the club from his successful 2023/24 stint makes him a seamless fit, especially as injuries like Andreas Christensen’s ACL tear expose vulnerabilities at the back.
With salary negotiations finalized—including Cancelo’s significant pay cut and Barcelona covering €5 million—the deal’s completion hinges on minor details like registration timing.
Reports from Diario Sport confirm Joao Cancelo will reclaim the iconic No. 2 jersey at Barcelona, left vacant since his departure last summer.
This number, which he wore during his previous 42-appearance spell—yielding 4 goals and 5 assists—symbolizes continuity and full-back legacy at Camp Nou.
No current squad member claims it, clearing the path for his immediate adoption upon arrival.
Cancelo’s versatility shines as the key asset.
Last season at Al Hilal, he logged starts across both flanks despite tensions with coach Simone Inzaghi, showcasing his elite crossing (2.1 per 90), progressive carries, and defensive recoveries.
In 2023/24 at Barcelona, he delivered 24 games at left-back, 16 at right-back, and others higher up, proving adaptability in Flick’s fluid system.
His return allows Jules Koundé to revert to center-back, bolstering the spine alongside Ronald Araújo and Pau Cubarsí.
The timing proves crucial. Barcelona bypassed Inter Milan’s interest, prioritizing Cancelo’s desire to return to Europe and La Liga leaders.
A €4 million loan fee to Al Hilal seals the economics, leveraging Christensen’s salary space for registration.
Joao Cancelo skips the Spanish Super Cup but could debut soon after, injecting dynamism and experience.
This move shifts Barcelona’s January priorities from a center-back hunt toward full-back quality amid slim market options.
Cancelo’s homecoming signals ambition, blending proven talent with Flick’s high-pressing blueprint for title contention.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
