Joao Cancelo has completed a permanent move to FC Barcelona, signing a three-year contract until June 2029 after mutually terminating his deal with Saudi side Al-Hilal. The 32-year-old arrived in Barcelona on Monday and made clear just how determined he was to return to the club for a third spell.
‘Barca or nothing’: Portugal’s Joao Cancelo declares loyalty for Catalan club
Cancelo said:
“Deco knew that either I came here… or I would spend a year without playing while still collecting my salary.”
The Portuguese full-back added:
“It was Barca or nothing.”
The former Saudi Pro League player also confirmed he had given up part of his salary to facilitate the free transfer after Al-Hilal had sought a fee of around €10 million. Cancelo first joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester City for the 2023-24 season under Xavi Hernandez.
Cancelo returned for a second loan from Al-Hilal in January 2026, making 23 appearances, scoring twice and providing four assists while helping Hansi Flick’s side win La Liga. His permanent arrival strengthens the defensive options for Flick as Barcelona look to build on last season’s success.
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