Joao Cancelo chose to return to Barcelona in January over other offers but has struggled for playing time.
In January, he had options, including a clear path back to Inter, but he opted for Barcelona seeking familiar ground and unfinished business. However, after a month, things seem complicated: two starts and two substitute appearances without consistent rhythm.
In the match against Girona, Flick substituted Cancelo for Gerard Martin, a more central player, which sparked blunt reactions in Italy. Italian media say Cancelo would have had a bigger role at Inter, especially given their defensive injuries. He chose Barcelona hoping for a clearer path.
Some see the signing as more political than sporting, due to the excellent relationship between his agent Jorge Mendes and Barcelona’s hierarchy. Flick wanted defensive reinforcements after injuries to key center-backs, not a full-back like Cancelo.
Before the move, Cancelo had only played six official matches this season in Saudi Arabia, which affects his adaptation. Currently, attention has shifted to Deco, a longtime ally of Mendes. While Cancelo faces challenges now, the situation may change as the squad evolves.
