Joao Cancelo has been one of the most effective additions that FC Barcelona made over the last summer transfer window. The fullback has adapted to his new club very quickly and is already one of the fixed starters for Xavi.
Higher-ups at FC Barcelona have been impressed with his performances on the pitch and behavior in the dressing room. However, the Portuguese defender has an image of being a problematic player with his previous clubs, and he has been at the receiving end of scathing criticism because of this image in the last few months.
Cancelo explodes after last match
As SPORT has reported, the fullback gave an excellent performance in his last match with Portugal against Bosnia, in which he also got on the scoresheet. He celebrated this goal with full vigor and also had some scathing words for his disapprovers after the match:
“The celebration was with anger because things happen that aren’t related to football, and what I’ve done is value myself. It was a slap in the face with a white glove for those who criticize me.”
The fullback also took the opportunity to claim that he has been a good professional in all his previous clubs, and is willing to give his all for Portugal and Barcelona:
“I have always been a professional wherever I have been. Some sell an image of me that is not true. I have a good heart and do everything I can to help the Portugal national team and Barcelona.”
Comfortable on both the flanks
Cancelo claimed that he was willing to give everything for his team on the pitch, and would play on any of the flanks in accordance with the needs of his side:
“I don’t mind playing on the right or on the left. I have matured a lot, and I know I can be versatile on the wings. I don’t care where they put me, and I try to perform as the coaches ask me. There’s no problem at all, and there hasn’t been one before.”
Cancelo has truly been good for Barcelona, as he has significantly improved the quality of the right flank for the Catalan team. He has also dispelled any misunderstandings about his behaviour for now, and Barcelona will be happy to keep him even beyond the current loan term, despite the high price that Manchester City will demand.