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Joao Cancelo’s time at Manchester City is coming to a dramatic close, as the Portuguese full-back is set to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in a €25 million deal. With a contract worth €15 million per year, Cancelo’s move marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career. This transfer not only ends his five-year stint at City but also highlights the growing trend of top European stars heading to the Saudi Pro League. For Cancelo, who was once a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s system, this transition underscores a striking twist in his footballing journey.
The Bigger Picture: Why is Cancelo Leaving Man City?
Cancelo’s departure from Manchester City is not just about the transfer fee or the lucrative contract he’s set to receive at Al-Hilal. It is also a story of how quickly fortunes can change in football. Despite being one of the Premier League’s standout full-backs, twice named in the PFA Team of the Year, Cancelo found himself on the outskirts of Guardiola’s plans.
His fall from grace can be traced back to a reported fallout with the manager, which led to his unexpected loan moves to Bayern Munich and Barcelona over the last 18 months.
This move is particularly intriguing because it signals the end of an era at City. Cancelo was an instrumental part of the team that won multiple Premier League titles, known for his versatility and ability to play as an inverted full-back. His departure leaves a significant gap in the squad, raising questions about how City will cope without one of their most dynamic players.
Impact on Manchester City
Financially, Cancelo’s transfer aligns with Manchester City’s summer strategy.
The €25 million fee adds to a transfer window that has seen City bring in around €145 million in sales. While the financial aspect is a win for the club, the on-pitch implications are more complex.
Cancelo’s exit reduces Guardiola’s options at full-back, an area that has been key to City’s tactical flexibility. With Cancelo gone, the pressure will be on other players to step up, particularly in a season where City aims to defend their Premier League crown and make another push in the Champions League.
This move also raises questions about how Guardiola’s relationship with Cancelo deteriorated so rapidly. It’s rare for a player of Cancelo’s caliber to fall out of favor so quickly, especially after signing a new contract in 2022. The abrupt nature of his departure suggests that whatever caused the rift was significant and irreparable.
Cancelo’s New Chapter at Al-Hilal
For Al-Hilal, signing Joao Cancelo is a statement of intent. The Saudi Pro League has been making headlines with high-profile signings, and Cancelo’s arrival further elevates their status. Joining stars like Ruben Neves and Neymar, Cancelo will be expected to bring his European experience and quality to the Saudi league. The move also positions Al-Hilal as a serious contender in Asian football, as they continue to build a squad capable of challenging for both domestic and continental honors.
However, this move also represents a shift in Cancelo’s career. While the financial rewards are clear, playing in the Saudi Pro League is a step down from the competitive intensity of the Premier League, La Liga, or Bundesliga. How this will affect his standing with the Portuguese national team remains to be seen. With Euro 2024 on the horizon, Cancelo will need to ensure that his performances in Saudi Arabia keep him in contention for a starting spot.
Conclusion
Joao Cancelo’s transfer to Al-Hilal unexpectedly ends his time at Manchester City. This move reflects both the evolving landscape of global football and the personal challenges that can abruptly change a player’s trajectory.
As Cancelo begins this new chapter in Saudi Arabia, only time will tell if this move revitalizes his career or marks the beginning of a quieter phase for one of football’s most talented full-backs.
Will Cancelo find the success he once enjoyed at City, or has he traded ambition for comfort in the Middle East?
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