Transfer Market: João Cancelo Pushes for Special Barcelona Milestone

João Cancelo is actively pursuing a return to Barcelona, a move that would place him in an exclusive group of players to have represented the Catalan club across three distinct periods of their career.

The Portuguese international, currently contracted to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, could etch his name into the club's history books if his return materializes. While Barcelona has seen players like Hristo Stoichkov, Dani Alves, and Iván de la Peña return for a second stint, a third spell is far rarer. Instances of players having three separate tenures at the same club, such as Carlos Tévez at Boca Juniors, Adriano Leite at Flamengo, or Nuri Sahin at Borussia Dortmund, are considered atypical in football.

Cancelo's initial spell with the Catalan giants occurred during the 2023/24 season, on loan from Manchester City. Under Xavi Hernández, the full-back featured in 42 matches – 32 in LaLiga and 10 in the Champions League – contributing four goals and five assists. The following summer, in August 2024, City permanently transferred him to Al Hilal for €25 million, as Barcelona lacked the financial capacity to retain him.

His desire to return never waned, and the player has publicly expressed his affection for the club. Recently, he shared an Instagram post featuring blue and maroon hearts, further emphasizing his emotional connection.

The opportunity for a second stint arose in the winter transfer window of the 2025/26 season, once again on loan, this time from Al Hilal. Unveiled in January 2026 under Hansi Flick, Cancelo articulated his ambition: «I have a very special feeling for this club, I feel at home, and if I couldn't win a title in my first spell, that's what I want now.»

During that second half of the season, his wish was granted with the conquest of the Spanish league title. He participated in 23 games, tallying two goals and three assists. Now, at 32, Cancelo aims for a third return to Barcelona, ideally on a permanent basis this time.