Official: Cancelo returns to Barcelona | OneFootball

Joao Cancelo has completed his return to Barcelona on a permanent basis after agreeing a three-year contract with the Spanish champions.

The Portugal international was unable to be officially unveiled on Wednesday as the necessary paperwork had not been completed, but Barcelona confirmed his arrival on Thursday after he underwent his medical.

Cancelo joins as a free agent following the mutual termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. According to Barcelona, his new deal runs until the summer of 2029.

The right-back first joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester City for the 2023-24 season, before returning to the club last season for a second temporary spell from Al-Hilal. He has now made his move permanent, having previously made 65 appearances for the Catalan side.

Cancelo joined Al-Hilal in 2024 after leaving City, where he won two Premier League titles. His career has also included spells with Benfica, Valencia, Inter Milan, Juventus and Bayern Munich.

His return provides Hansi Flick with further experience and versatility in defence as Barcelona continue to strengthen their squad.