Hansi Flick demands more from 31-year-old defender despite Sevilla heroics | OneFootball

Barcelona may be enjoying the eventual impact of Joao Cancelo, but within the club, expectations remain high, especially from Hansi Flick.

According to a report from SPORT, although the German is pleased with the Portuguese defender’s recent performances, he still believes there is another level waiting to be unlocked.

Cancelo’s latest outing against Sevilla perfectly summed up his growing influence. 

The full-back not only found the back of the net but also won a crucial penalty for his side, playing a decisive role in the team’s attacking output. 

It was the kind of performance that justified Barcelona’s decision to bring him in during the winter transfer window.

However, even in the midst of that strong display, Flick is said to be demanding more.

Why is that?

While Cancelo’s attacking contribution has been undeniable, the coach is still focused on refining other aspects of his game. 

Flick is demanding more from Cancelo. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

There are specific areas, particularly tactical discipline and defensive concentration, where Flick expects improvement.

Interestingly, this is not a new concern, as even during his earlier spell, Cancelo showed moments of brilliance going forward but occasionally struggled with consistency in defensive positioning. 

Now, under Flick’s system, those details are becoming even more important.

As such, Flick wants Cancelo to fully adapt to Barcelona’s high defensive line, a system that requires sharp awareness, constant communication, and minimal lapses in concentration.

Despite these demands, there is no doubt about the club’s satisfaction with the signing.

Cancelo has already started to justify the faith placed in him. He was named MVP against Levante earlier in the season, where he registered an assist and has followed that up with impactful performances. 

Slowly but surely, he is establishing himself as a key figure in the squad.