Barcelona Lands Joao Cancelo: Star Defender's New Shirt Number Unveiled

Barcelona has formally presented João Cancelo for his second stint on Tuesday afternoon, announcing that he will wear the No. 2 jersey once more.

The Spanish club arranged a temporary loan deal to bring the Al Hilal defender back to Spain for the rest of the current season, a year and a half after declining the opportunity to sign him permanently.

Cancelo first arrived at Barcelona before the 2023–24 season following his disagreement with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. The adaptable defender became one of Xavi Hernández's most consistent performers and accumulated an impressive record of four goals and five assists in all competitions—matching the exact output of key midfielder Pedri.

Following that campaign, Barcelona chose not to exercise their option to retain Cancelo permanently, returning him to Manchester City who quickly arranged a €25 million ($29.2 million) transfer to Al Hilal. Despite playing a significant role during his first season in Saudi Arabia, Cancelo completely lost favor under new manager Simone Inzaghi. The former Inter manager seems to have prevailed in this standoff.

Inter Milan were reportedly considering bringing Cancelo back to San Siro, while Juventus (another former club of the well-traveled player) were also mentioned as potential suitors. However, Cancelo's wish to return to Catalonia seems to have been the key factor in making this transfer happen.

Joao Cancelo Shirt Number History

Joao Cancelo Shirt Number History

Data courtesy of Transfermarkt.

Not Hansi Flick's Primary Target—Report

Not Hansi Flick's Primary Target—Report

Flick has been cautious in his remarks regarding Cancelo's return. "João is capable of playing on either wing," the German manager observed. "It's a six-month arrangement, it's a solid choice, and he possesses considerable talent."

Barcelona lack depth at center-back rather than at fullback positions, which explains why Flick was primarily pursuing Manchester City's Nathan Aké, according to The Athletic.

Nevertheless, that deal appeared unrealistic before being completely eliminated by the severe injuries to Rúben Dias and Joško Gvardiol. City suddenly needed a new central defender—primarily Marc Guéhi—and were unwilling to part with anyone in that role.

How Barcelona Can Finance Cancelo

How Barcelona Can Finance Cancelo

Like any significant Barcelona acquisition, some financial maneuvering was necessary to complete the transaction. The resources for Cancelo's signing became accessible after Andreas Christensen sustained a partial ACL tear in December.

Spanish league rules allow clubs to redirect 80% of an injured player's salary toward a new signing if that affected individual will be out for four months or longer. The unfortunate Christensen met these criteria, thus enabling Cancelo's opportunity for a return.