Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over Levante was more than just reclaiming control in La Liga.
Joao Cancelo, who recently returned to the club on loan, reminded everyone why he was brought back. Even though naturally right-footed, the Portuguese full-back played on the left, constantly pushing forward, stretching the defense, and creating chances.
He was involved in Marc Bernal’s opening goal and later assisted Frenkie de Jong to double the lead. His attacking intensity and energy did not go unnoticed, and he was named the match MVP.
After the match, Cancelo spoke openly about his performance and finally delivering since returning to Barcelona in winter.
When asked if it was his best game since coming back, he admitted, “My best game since coming back? Yes, for sure.
It’s about taking advantage of the opportunity. I trained very well and felt the coach was going to play me.
When you train well, things just flow well on the pitch.”
His confidence was evident throughout the match as he repeatedly made forward runs, delivered crosses, and supported the attack like a winger.
Discussing his natural instinct to join the offensive phase, he said, “I’m an attacking full-back,” but quickly shifted focus to the team’s response after recent setbacks.
Barcelona had suffered two disappointing defeats before this game, and pressure was mounting. Cancelo acknowledged the context.
“The important thing is the victory. Football always gives you a second chance, and after two bad games, we played very well against a team with very good players, despite their position in the table, and we deserved the win.
In La Liga, it’s hard to win every game,” he said.
Barcelona needed leaders to step up against Levante, and Joao Cancelo answered that call.
