Why would Joao Cancelo's stay be beneficial for FC Barcelona?

Since arriving in 2023, Joao Cancelo has expressed his love for Barca and his willingness to continue here time and again. Add to that his crucial role in the full-back position, with a significant presence in Barca's goal contributions, and Cancelo's stay had been a no-brainer. However, the last few weeks hadn't been the same for Joao's Barca future, when he seemed too desperate to return after his loan ended on June 30th.

Why would Joao Cancelo's stay be beneficial for FC Barcelona?

But the good news has finally arrived, which states that the German manager Hansi Flick has approved his signing. Even though Cancelo's parent club, Manchester City, was reluctant to another loan to Barca, the player's desire for the Catalan club has forced them to negotiate. Thus, talks for a loan deal with a mandatory purchase option (if certain objectives are met) have begun.

A big reason for Flick's approval of Cancelo has been the player's experience and versatility to switch between the two full-back positions. Cancelo, who played the last campaign as a left-back, can switch to the other flank as and when required, making him a great option in the squad.

Moreover, Cancelo's availability enhances the overall stability of the Barca backline as it gives Flick the freedom to switch Jules Kounde to the center-back role, making a strong back-four in Araujo's absence. Not only that, Cancelo brings in the required experience of playing at some of the biggest clubs, which could lead the Catalan defense to glory.

Further, with Sergi Roberto leaving the club as a free agent, Barcelona needs an experienced player to bolster the right side of the defense and even make overlapping runs with Lamine Yamal to contribute with goals and assists on the other side of the pitch. Thus, Barca keeping hold of Cancelo is a reliable option for the long term.