Cancelo chooses Barcelona over a year on the sidelines

Joao Cancelo has arrived in Barcelona to complete a permanent return from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, agreeing to end his contract there before signing a three-year deal with the Catalan side.

The Portugal international said he accepted a financial sacrifice because returning to Barcelona was his priority. “I gave up part of my salary, but it was either sign for Barça or nothing,” Cancelo told reporters after landing in the city.

Cancelo said he had trained separately for a week before making his decision. “I told Deco that either I came here or I’d spend a year there without playing, still getting paid,” he said.

Third Barcelona spell begins

The defender is now back at Barcelona for a third spell and is expected to compete for an important role under Hansi Flick during the 2026-27 season.

“It’s a very special club, I’m here to help and I hope to win many titles. We’re building a great team,” Cancelo said.

His return is part of an ambitious summer rebuild. Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Jesse Bisiwu have also reportedly joined Barcelona, while Rodri is expected to be announced as another new signing. Flick is still seeking a striker, and further departures could follow as Deco finalizes the squad before the transfer window closes.