Manchester City defender opens up about rift with Pep Guardiola causing uncertain future

Joao Cancelo, on loan from Manchester City, has shed some light on his relationship with Pep Guardiola that led to his departure from the club.

The Portugal international’s time at Etihad Stadium started breaking down during the Treble-winning season of 2022/23, leading him to go on a six-month loan to Bayern Munich due to the emergence of Rico Lewis in the first team.

Cancelo surprised many by returning to Manchester for the pre-season tour of far-east Asia, but he ultimately departed for FC Barcelona on a season-long agreement shortly afterward.

There has been speculation about a rift between Cancelo and Guardiola, but the player addressed this in an interview with Portuguese outlet RTP Noticias, saying, “There are things we didn’t agree on, but I am grateful and happy.”

Guardiola is unlikely to reintegrate Cancelo into the team after this season, and the player, contracted until 2027, is expected to leave permanently. Barcelona may struggle to afford his transfer, opening up opportunities for other clubs across Europe or the Saudi Arabian football project.