Putting Aside Joao Cancelo Beef, Pep Guardiola Delivers 2 Transfer Blows To Barcelona

FC Barcelona is looking at some major improvements this season. Despite possessing some of the best players, the club fell short of arch-rivals Real Madrid for the league title. Under the new coach Hansi Flick, the club is expected to make some major signings. However, leveraging some of them from Manchester City last season, it looks like the Blaugrana are lurking at a major setback by its former coach and player Pep Guardiola. The news comes after Guardiola recently hinted at settling his issue with the Catalan club’s loanee Joao Cancelo.

A return to Barcelona on loan looked like a done deal for Joao Cancelo. Guardiola, however, may have a U-turn in mind, with reports suggesting a renewed interest in Cancelo. According to City’s fan and news page on X (previously Twitter), the Spanish manager reportedly said, “A solution will be found that’s best for everyone. He’s #ManCity‘s player and, if an agreement isn’t reached, he will return in pre-season. If he wants to stay at Barcelona, and the clubs agree, a loan will be sought again,” indicating a patch-up between the two. In addition, Pep also wants to keep Bernardo Silva adding a double blow to the former La Liga champions.

Talks earlier suggested that the Portuguese midfielder was interested in leaving Manchester City and was keen on joining the Spanish team. However, Guardiola bashed all the talks, saying that the club received no calls for the talisman and wants to keep him.

It was reported that Silva was discussing with his national teammate Joao Felix, who is also very pleased with the club. However, the player’s $64 million release clause is another hindrance for Joan Laporta to sign the 29-year-old. But things may turn positive in the case of Cancelo.

Will Pep Guardiola’s alternative approach bring back Joao Cancelo?

Pep Guardiola’s spat with Cancelo was regarding his reluctance to be sidelined. Despite the tenterhooks, the player acknowledged the manager as the best in the world, giving fans the hope of returning to the Etihad. However, with Pep willing to keep the defender, the Portuguese international will have a hard choice to make. Cancelo looked determined to continue at Barcelona, ready to extend his loan for another season.

Moreover, Guardiola admitted that he would not force the star into returning until he chooses. Therefore, the situation seems to be a bit confusing for Flick’s club. With all targets monitored closely by their club, how many would land up in the Spanish City will be interesting to see.