Spanish media have now heaped praise on Joao Cancelo after his excellent start to life at Barcelona – following a summer loan move from Manchester City.
It was AS who complimented the Portugal international after he scored on his first start for Barcelona in Saturday’s 5-0 win over Real Betis.
So, what was written about Joao Cancelo? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the Spanish news outlet state that the 29-year-old proved himself as a “prodigy” in the win against Real Betis.
AS wrote: “The winger, 29 years old, proved to be a prodigy. (We) already saw it coming during his years at Valencia. Now, almost in his thirties, he is a full-back who, in addition to floating on the field because of how easily he advances with the ball at his feet and how easily he can play, has developed great tactical instinct (the imprint of Pep Guardiola) that allows him to give a different record to the team where he plays.
“Cancelo showed courage in each duel, an unmistakably British label in Premier League football.”
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Clearly, the Spanish media are loving what they’ve seen from the Manchester City loanee so far.
Xavi is also pleased with Joao Cancelo at Barcelona
Xavi also heaped praise on Cancelo, saying that his “greatness” is there for all to see in training.
The 43-year-old told MARCA: “We are talking about two footballers who, at the level of individual quality, are beyond doubt. You watch them train and you see their greatness.
“Cancelo comes from a coach (Guardiola) who for me is the best and interprets everything very well. We have spoken with him and he has understood it. They both give variations that make the team improve. Physically, they are strong. They raise the quality of the team.”
If the Portugal international keeps this level of performance up, Barcelona will surely do everything they can to secure a permanent deal in 2024.