With summer progressing, Barça has sped up an operation that had been kept discreetly in the background. The Catalan club needed to strengthen the right back position and found an opportunity it couldn't let slip away. It's a footballer with experience at the elite level who already knows what it's like to wear the blaugrana jersey.
His first spell at Camp Nou left mixed feelings, but also flashes of a standout level. After several months abroad, the player returns with a new mindset and renewed ambition. This time, he's coming to stay and be a key piece in Flick's system.
The decision wasn't made lightly, and there were doubts in the club's offices for weeks. However, the footballer's profile, his availability, and the price ultimately tipped the balance. The deal will be closed for an amount under €15 million, which is very manageable for the current Barça.
Flick wanted immediate experience
The new blaugrana coach requested reinforcements with international experience, capable of performing from the very first minute. His list highlighted versatile players, able to integrate quickly and with no adaptation period. This name, even though it wasn't the first media option, met all the required criteria.
With experience in leagues such as the Premier League, Serie A, and Bundesliga, his background is his best guarantee. In addition, his previous spell at Barça makes his integration and knowledge of the environment easier. Flick valued his tactical adaptability as a major competitive advantage for his playing style.
The signing represents a market opportunity smartly seized by Deco and Joan Laporta. The player was offered by his agent Jorge Mendes, and both sides were fully willing. The agreement with his current club, one of the giants of Saudi Arabia, was closed quickly and without complications.
A useful profile for the squad
Beyond his natural position at right back, he can play on the left and even in midfield. That versatility is gold for a squad that will face a packed and demanding schedule. In addition, his competitive attitude and commitment have been highly valued by the coaching staff.
Although his departure from Barça raised some doubts in the past, the context is now different. His performance in Saudi Arabia has been solid, and he's coming back with a clear motivation to succeed. Flick himself believes that, with his system, he can correct past mistakes and enhance his strengths.
In the locker room, the news was received with surprise, but also with optimism from several key figures. The squad welcomes the arrival of experienced and hungry players who raise internal competition. For the club, it means a signing that balances cost and performance.
The official announcement is expected to coincide with the launch of Barça's new jersey for this season. It will be part of a joint presentation to maximize media and economic impact. Everything has already been agreed upon and all that's left is to wait for the right moment to make it public.
The chosen one is...
Yes, it's finally Joao Cancelo, who's returning to Barça for a fee close to €15 million. The Portuguese right back, now owned by Al-Hilal, has insisted for weeks on his desire to return. Both Flick and the sporting management have decided to grant him that second chance he so longed for.
His first spell left moments of great quality, but also mistakes that cost him criticism, especially in the Champions League. Now, with more maturity and a clear tactical idea, Joao Cancelo will seek to finally establish himself as a leader at right back. Camp Nou awaits him with open arms... this time, with the conviction that he won't disappoint.
