Barcelona veteran star opens up on relationship with midfielder: ‘The little brother I’ve always wanted’ | OneFootball

Joao Cancelo returned to FC Barcelona during the winter transfer window, arriving on loan from Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia until the end of the season.

The 31-year-old Portuguese right-back had previously spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan with the Blaugrana, while he was still a Manchester City player.

During that time, Cancelo established himself as a popular figure in the Barcelona locker room, forging strong relationships with several teammates, who were delighted with his return this year.

Cancelo on close relationship with Gavi

Now, in an interview with the club’s official media, Cancelo acknowledged that Gavi was the player he was most excited to see again after rejoining Barcelona.

“It’s a bit unfair because I get along well with everyone, but Gavi… From the moment I arrived, he made me feel at home,” Cancelo explained.

“He’s a guy I get along with really well, and he’s very much like me. He’s like the little brother I’ve always wanted,” the veteran star added.

The Portuguese defender recalled his first contact with the midfielder during his previous spell at the club in the 2023/24 season, saying:

“When I arrived, he approached me and told me that he would be there for whatever I needed. That made me feel very good, and I have a special affection for him.”

It is no secret that Gavi is one of the most popular members in the Barça dressing room, with several players and even manager Hansi Flick sharing a special bond with the La Masia graduate.

The 21-year-old star is currently recovering from a knee injury for which he had to undergo arthroscopic surgery back in September. Having entered the final phase of his recovery, Gavi is expected to resume group training sooner rather than later.