Portuguese star João Cancelo, Barcelona's right-back, expressed his immense satisfaction with his performance against Levante, a match the Catalan team won 3-0 in the 25th round of La Liga. Cancelo stated in a press interview that this was his best performance in a Barcelona shirt since joining the club, indicating that he is gradually regaining his true form after a period of adaptation.
Cancelo's arrival at Barcelona on loan from Manchester City during the summer transfer window was seen by many as a long-awaited solution to the club's long-standing problem at full-back. After a distinguished career with top clubs like Juventus and Manchester City, the Portuguese player brought with him considerable experience and unique attacking abilities, qualities the Catalan side desperately needed to bolster both their defense and attack.
In comments reported by Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo explained that he wasn't in top physical condition when he arrived in Barcelona. He said, "I wasn't in the best physical shape when I arrived, but I'm getting back to my best level step by step. The coach is very strict, as is the club, and I like that approach." He added that the initial period was difficult because he wasn't as fit as his teammates, but he worked hard to reach the required fitness level.
Cancelo described the Levante match as his "best performance" since returning to the team, noting that his commitment in training was the most important factor in regaining his place in the starting lineup. He added, "When you train well, things reflect positively in matches. The most important thing is always to win, and football constantly gives you new opportunities." In that match, he delivered a complete performance both defensively and offensively, which boosted the confidence of the coaching staff, led by Xavi Hernandez, in his abilities.
Cancelo's importance to Barcelona lies in his tactical versatility; he can play equally well as a right and left full-back, giving coach Xavi a range of options. With Alejandro Balde's recent dip in form, Cancelo's chances of remaining at left-back appear strong, creating healthy competition that benefits the team. His ability to push forward and create plays from deep makes him a crucial strategic asset in Barcelona's system.
Cancelo's return to full physical and technical form is a major boost to Barcelona's ambitions this season, both in the La Liga title race and the Champions League. His experience in big matches will be a crucial factor in the later stages of the season, while everyone awaits the club's final decision on whether to make his loan move permanent, given the financial challenges the club is facing.
