Barcelona star João Cancelo on Corinthians' poor run, praises fans | OneFootball

Standing out in European football since returning to Barcelona, full-back João Cancelo spoke once again about Corinthians. In an interview with TNT Sports before the clash against Atlético de Madrid in the Champions League, the Portuguese player recalled his recent visit to Neo Química Arena, praised the fans, and commented on Timão’s current moment.

“What I liked most was the fans. The Gaviões da Fiel are special. I know that, at this moment, Corinthians are not going through a good period. I already followed Corinthians before, but I started following them more because of Malcom, who is one of the best friends football has given me. And that’s why I decided to go to São Paulo. He told me to go there, to his home, get to know that city, and I was very well received,” he began.

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“Yesterday I went to dinner with MC Tuto and I said that I was very well received in Brazil. People are very cheerful, they welcome us very warmly, and it will always stay in my heart. I hope to return. Right now I’d like to see if I can visit Rio de Janeiro, but we’ll see. I have a very busy schedule and, when I can, I will surely go there again,” Cancelo added.

One more crazy one in the bunch

This is not the first time João Cancelo has openly spoken about his support for Corinthians. Back in 2024, while still playing for Manchester City, the Portuguese player was spotted walking through a shopping mall wearing the black-and-white shirt. Later, already at Al-Hilal, he appeared in the jersey on more than one occasion.

During the Club World Cup last year, Cancelo was asked about a preference in Argentine football, but he mentioned Timão instead.

“I have nothing against River. I’m not anti-River, but I like Boca more. And in Brazil, I prefer Corinthians.”

In another interview, also after the match against Real Madrid, the then-Al-Hilal player spoke even more about the fans.

“I still haven’t been to Corinthians’ stadium, but from what I see of the fans, Malcom told me many things about Corinthians. And they are things I identify with. My favorite colors are black and white, and I really like Corinthians. I have friends from Brazil who are Corinthians fans too, and that’s why I like Corinthians,” said Cancelo.

At the time, the Portuguese player had not yet visited Neo Química Arena, but he went to Timão’s home shortly afterward, in June 2025, when he watched the 2-2 draw between Corinthians and Botafogo.

Also during the Club World Cup, forward Malcom revealed that Cancelo was already a Corinthians fan before meeting him.

“He already liked Corinthians. When I arrived, he knew I came through the Terrão academy, and he immediately said: ‘man, I’m Corinthians.’ We get along very well, he’s always talking about the bando de loucos, about the Gaviões. We’re able to have a relaxed conversation. Having a guy like that in the squad is super important, a great player. We hope to have a great Club World Cup. And go, Corinthians,” he said.

Having had standout spells at clubs such as Manchester City, Juventus, and Bayern, João Cancelo left Al-Hilal this season and moved to Barcelona, where he had already played on loan. There, the Portuguese player secured a starting spot and has been drawing attention under Hansi Flick.

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