Joao Cancelo has now suffered a knee injury following a challenge from another Manchester City loanee in Maximo Perrone.
Barcelona announced the 29-year-old had damaged the medial collateral ligament in his left knee on their official website.
So, what happened between Joao Cancelo and Maximo Perrone? Let’s take a look…
Joao Cancelo injured by Maximo Perrone
Well, the two Manchester City loanees went head to head as Barcelona faced Las Palmas in La Liga.
Xavi’s side recorded a 2-1 win at the Estadio Gran Canaria thanks to goals from Ferran Torres and Ilkay Gundogan, in what was a strongly Manchester City themed affair.
Unfortunately, Cancelo only lasted 11 minutes before a “very hard clash” involving Perrone – as Spanish news outlet SPORT described it – forced the Portugal international off the pitch.
Barcelona did not put a timeframe on the Manchester City loanee’s return when announcing the injury on their official website.
However, it certainly does not sound good.
Joao Cancelo injury could affect Manchester City sale
Before the Barreiro-born defender’s injury, a permanent move to Barcelona seemed all but guaranteed.
Cancelo has shone in Spain with three goals and two assists to his name in 22 appearances under Xavi.
A story by the aforementioned SPORT claimed that Barcelona had already decided to sign the Portugal international permanently, despite some concerns over Manchester City’s €30m (£26m) asking price.
It was even said that Barcelona No.3 Alejandro Balde may be used as part of a swap deal.
However, if Cancelo’s injury is serious, and rules him out for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign, Barcelona will surely have reservations about spending their limited funds on him, especially as he turns 30 in May.
Hopefully, the knee problem is not a severe one, and Cancelo can return to action soon – be sure to keep an eye out for updates.
