Fakayejo Paul
BARCELONA — The long-awaited return is official. João Cancelo has rejoined FC Barcelona on loan from Al-Hilal until the end of the 2025/26 season, following a breakthrough in negotiations that first began in December.
The deal was finalized at the club’s offices this Tuesday, attended by President Joan Laporta and Sporting Director Deco.
Despite a brief scare where the club initially posted and then deleted the announcement due to a “minor paperwork delay,” the Portuguese defender is now fully registered and ready to play.
Key Deal Terms
- Loan Duration: Until June 30, 2026.
- The “December Story” Confirmed: As exclusively revealed last month, Barcelona will pay a €4m (£3.5m) fee to cover a portion of Cancelo’s wages, with Al-Hilal subsidizing the remainder of his massive Saudi salary.
- Shirt Number: Cancelo will wear the No. 2 shirt, previously vacated by Pau Cubarsí’s switch to No. 5.
The Flick Factor
Hansi Flick has been vocal about his need for defensive versatility after Andreas Christensen was sidelined with a long-term knee injury in December.
Cancelo’s ability to operate at elite levels on both the right and left flanks provides immediate relief for a squad currently leading La Liga by four points.
“I didn’t think twice about coming back,” Cancelo said at his unveiling. “I told everyone I would wait for Barça. Representing this club is an honour; it’s the best in the world.”