Joao Cancelo’s first words after arriving in Barcelona ahead of transfer: ‘I’m where I wanted to be’

Joao Cancelo’s first words after arriving in Barcelona ahead of transfer: ‘I’m where I wanted to be’ While Barcelona and Al-Hilal have been in direct conversations regarding Joao Cancelo’s transfer for a long time now, matters appear to have stagnated in recent months with no significant progress. The Asian side constantly demanded a larger fee, beginning with €10 million and going up to even €15 million for the Portuguese full-back. Both Barcelona and Cancelo played the waiting game until earlier this week. In a matter of days, the deal has been fast-tracked and the Portuguese star’s return to Barcelona is now all but official. The player is said to have given up part of his salary and terminated his contract to return home, and he even travelled back to complete the move earlier today. Cancelo speaks to the media Immediately upon landing in Barcelona earlier today, the Portuguese full-back was confronted by the media and asked what he made of the club’s chances this season. “We have a very strong team this season! Finally, I’m where I wanted to be,” he began\, making it clear he never had any doubts about returning to Barcelona. Now a permanent Barcelona player. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) Cancelo then admitted to training regularly even on vacation to stay fit for his return to Catalonia, all in anticipation of the level required at the club. “I trained hard for a full week to be ready for Barcelona.” The full-back then revealed the conversation he had with Deco about his transfer and how Catalonia was the only place in his mind. “I told Deco: Either I come here, or I’ll stay there for a year without playing while continuing to receive my salary.” “I gave up part of my salary, but my choice was either signing for Barcelona or nothing,” he added, revealing the sacrifice he had made for the transfer to go through. Passion like none other Cancelo’s dedication to the badge is unreal. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) Barcelona’s academy stars are often held as the standard when it comes to measuring loyalty towards the badge, but Joao Cancelo may well be up there as one of the most devoted Barcelona fans and players. Over the years, the player has constantly pushed for a move to Catalonia year after year. His arrival was always on loan, and he made it a norm to impress before leaving. This time, however, he arrives on a permanent transfer and can play stress-free as a full-time player of the club of his dreams. Source: Mundo Deportivo