João Cancelo recalls Benfica roots on return to Barcelona | OneFootball

João Cancelo has been unveiled as a Barcelona signing after joining on loan from Al Hilal until the end of the season, underlining his Benfica roots and his wish to debut at the new Camp Nou.

According to Glorioso 1904, the 31-year-old Portugal international spoke of his excitement at returning to the Catalan club after his official presentation on Tuesday.

He recalled facing Barcelona sides while in Benfica's academy, said he strongly identifies with the club's culture and, having previously spent one season there, felt at home when he walked back into the dressing room.

He added that his previous visits to Camp Nou did not bring good memories and that he has long wanted the chance to experience the stadium wearing blaugrana, noting Dani Alves as a major influence.

Asked about Real Madrid, Cancelo said big clubs do not wish rivals to sink, and stressed Barcelona's aim is to win as much as possible to meet their targets this season.

Valued at €10 million, Cancelo has made six competitive appearances for Al Hilal this season, playing 469 minutes, scoring once and providing two assists. He spent seven years at Benfica from 2007 to 2014, making two senior appearances in 2013/2014.

Source: Glorioso 1904