Despite Arsenal’s interference, the club is determined to keep him.
“Barcelona want to keep Joao Cancelo, 29, no matter what,” Spanish outlet Sport reported on Tuesday.
Kancelu joined Barcelona from Manchester City on loan in August. His uneasy relationship with Pep Guardiola led to his departure from City, as if he was being forced out again.
The reason for the falling out with Guardiola was also revealed. “Guardiola witnessed Kancelu’s misbehavior during a 1-2 league loss to Manchester United in the 20th round of the 22/23 season in January,” said Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
“Guardiola witnessed Kancelu’s irritation and frustration with his teammates while on the bench and requested the player’s release from the team,” the article continued.
This is not the first time Kancelu has had character issues. Back in 2017, Luciano Spalletti, who had a priestly relationship with Kancelu at Inter Milan, pointed out that “Kancelu blames the position if he doesn’t like the game”.
Spalletti also criticized Kancelu’s attitude, saying, “Most players have that tendency, but he is much more dissatisfied than others.”
It’s clear that he has more talent than character. Kancelu has already settled in at Barcelona. He’s already established himself as an integral part of the team, with three goals and two assists in 16 games across all competitions this season.
There are still plenty of teams who want him. According to the report, Arsenal will try to sign him next summer when his loan deal with Barcelona expires.
It’s not just Barcelona who will be watching. “Barcelona are planning to keep Kancelu at the club with a one-year loan extension that includes a mandatory outright transfer clause,” according to Sport.
It looks like Barcelona are weighing up a move. Despite Arsenal’s interest, Kancelu is reportedly prioritizing staying at Barcelona next summer.