Barcelona are expected to officially announce the return of João Cancelo early next week, shortly after the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid.
According to information from Sport, the Catalan club has already finalized all details of the deal and plans to make the announcement on Monday (12), regardless of the result of Sunday’s Clásico final.
Medical Exams and Integration Plan
João Cancelo is scheduled to arrive in Barcelona on Sunday (11). The Portuguese international will undergo medical examinations on Monday, before officially signing his contract.
Barcelona’s plan is to integrate Cancelo into the squad as early as Tuesday (13), allowing him to quickly adapt to Hansi Flick’s system and be available for upcoming fixtures.
Deco Highlights Cancelo’s Tactical Importance
Barcelona sporting director Deco praised the signing and emphasized the tactical flexibility Cancelo brings to the squad.
“He gives us more solutions. João Cancelo is a quality player, a high-level player, and this was a deal that would have been difficult to complete otherwise. It happened by chance. There’s an agreement that allows him to leave the club. He’s crazy about Barcelona,” Deco said.
Deco also explained how Cancelo’s arrival strengthens the defensive structure:
“Our goal was to improve the quality of the squad, and I believe it improves the team. We were missing a piece in defense. With Ronald Araújo returning, João Cancelo allows Eric García not to play as a full-back and gives Koundé the option to play centrally.”
🔴 NOTICIA SPORT
✈️ ¡João Cancelo aterriza mañana en Barcelona!
👉 El lateral luso ya ha reservado un vuelo privado para mañana y será presentado tras la final de Supercopa
✍️ @monfortcarlos | @DBR8 https://t.co/kqy0KPPTEL
— Diario SPORT (@sport) January 10, 2026
João Cancelo’s Previous Spell at Barcelona
Cancelo previously played for Barcelona during the 2023/2024 season, when he joined on loan from Manchester City. During that campaign, he made 42 appearances, scoring four goals and providing five assists, establishing himself as a key attacking outlet from defense.
