Joao Cancelo realizes lifelong dream with FC Barcelona move from Manchester City

The right-back position had been a significant concern for Barcelona, with coach Xavi Hernandez persistently urging the club to secure Cancelo's services. Eventually, the manager's persistence paid off, and now, at the age of 29, Cancelo dons the Blaugrana colours.

After completing his signing on Friday night, Cancelo was formally introduced as a Barcelona player in the presence of club president Joan Laporta, vice-president Rafa Yuste, and sporting director Deco.

Cancelo expressed his profound gratitude for joining Barcelona, a lifelong aspiration, stating, "It's the realisation of a dream. I extend my gratitude to my family, my agent, and especially my mother, who watches over me from above. She knows the club I always dreamt of playing for."

He went on to highlight the rich history of idols who graced the Camp Nou and what makes it a perfect fit for him: "Anyone who knows me is aware that my idols all donned this jersey. It's a club I deeply resonate with, a club that constantly seeks possession and attacking play; it's the ideal club for me."

Describing his objectives with the Blaugrana and his contributions to the team, Cancelo declared, "I'm immensely thrilled, arriving with determination and humility to clinch titles, as this is what defines this club. I thrive under the pressure here, and I'm optimistic it will be a season filled with silverware. I pledge hard work, unwavering commitment, and unity in our pursuit of titles."

Cancelo finds familiar faces in the dressing room, having previously played alongside Ferran Torres and Ilkay Gundogan at Manchester City. The right-back revealed conversations with some of his new teammates, stating, "I've already had the chance to converse with a few of my teammates like Ferran and Gündo. It's an extraordinary group, and I'm eagerly anticipating the journey ahead."

 

Read More: Barcelona bolster their options with capture of Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix (planetsport.com)