Joao Cancelo at the heart of Barcelona's dismal week: A costly dilemma
22 April 2024 16:57
FC Barcelona lost two important matches within a week, with Joao Cancelo playing a significant role in those defeats. The Portuguese defender faced harsh criticism from two football legends.
A few days earlier, FC Barcelona supporters hoped this season would draw to a successful close for them. Under the guidance of Xavi, the team was on the brink of advancing to the Champions League semi-finals and had a chance to close the gap on La Liga leaders Real Madrid. Unfortunately, their hopes quickly crumbled.
The Pride of Catalonia first suffered a defeat in their rematch against Paris Saint-Germain, losing 4-1. It was insufficient despite winning the first game 3-2 and leading 1-0 in the second match. This was the first setback, and the second blow came last Sunday.
Legends harshly criticise Joao Cancelo
FC Barcelona lost in El Clasico against Real Madrid. The Catalans took the lead twice but ultimately lost 3-2. "The Royals" are now close to clinching the Spanish championship.
The anti-hero of both mentioned matches was Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese defender made pivotal mistakes in the match against PSG and against Real Madrid. These errors resulted in two football legends criticizing him on television.
- It's insane how Cancelo still makes the same mistakes at his age (29). - remarked Marco van Basten on Dutch television Ziggo Sport.
- Now I know why Pep Guardiola didn't like Cancelo. This guy plays his own football game. He thinks it's only about what you do on the ball, you are a defender Goddamnit. - Ronald de Boer expressed frustration.
Xavi now faces a significant dilemma. Given such blunders, he must reconsider whether to continue counting on the Portuguese international, whose mistakes cost the team in critical matches. As a result, Robert Lewandowski and his teammates are set to end this season trophyless.
The player is in an even more dire situation. Joao Cancelo is currently on loan from Manchester City. Following such lacklustre performances, it seems unlikely that FC Barcelona will opt to spend a considerable amount to secure him permanently in the summer.
