Discarded by young Inzaghi, favored by Flick: 31-year-old Cancelo returns to Barça on a €4 million loan

Can you imagine? Portuguese international full-back Cancelo has been completely sidelined in the Saudi Pro League, mainly because he was rejected by Al Hilal’s new coach, young Inzaghi. However, this setback turned into an opportunity, as Cancelo can now return to one of Europe’s top five leagues and compete again in La Liga this winter transfer window.

According to the latest report from Italian transfer expert Romano, the Portuguese full-back Cancelo, currently playing for Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal, is confirmed to join Barça on loan until June this year, with a loan fee of €4 million. Although Inter Milan and Al Hilal reached an agreement, Cancelo only wants to return to Barça, as he is favored by Flick and Barça’s tactical style better suits his strengths.

Cancelo joined Al Hilal in the summer 2024 transfer window from Manchester City for a fee of €25 million. However, things took a downturn after the arrival of renowned Italian coach young Inzaghi, leading to conflicts between Cancelo and the coach and his subsequent exclusion. During the 2023-24 season, Cancelo was loaned to Barça, where he played 42 games, scored 4 goals, and provided 5 assists, establishing himself as a key full-back for the team.

Now 31 years old and standing 1.82 meters tall, Cancelo primarily plays as a full-back, capable on both flanks, and can also operate as a right midfielder. His market value on Transfermarkt is estimated at €10 million, and his contract with Al Hilal runs until 2027. This season under young Inzaghi, Cancelo has only made 2 appearances in the Saudi Pro League and played 4 matches in the AFC Champions League, contributing 1 goal and 2 assists.