Pep Guardiola Discusses Joao Cancelo’s Future Amid Transfer Uncertainty

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that Joao Cancelo could still have a role at the club despite the lack of transfer interest in the Portugal defender. Cancelo spent last season on loan, first at Bayern Munich and then at Barcelona, after falling out of favor with City.

Cancelo, who was once a key part of Guardiola’s squad and known for his role as an inverted full-back, faced a sudden decline in his standing with the Premier League champions. This came shortly after signing a new contract, which is set to keep him at City until 2027. With Barcelona not pursuing his return, Guardiola may need to reintegrate the player, whom City bought for £60 million in 2019.

Guardiola commented on Cancelo’s situation, stating, “He’s training with us. We will see. Maybe he will stay, maybe he will go on loan. I don’t know yet.” When asked about any transfer inquiries for Cancelo, who was part of Portugal’s squad at Euro 2024, Guardiola confirmed there had been no interest, adding, “It depends on his agents and the club. In the end, if he has to stay, we will treat him like all the other players, with respect, and try to make the best use of his significant qualities.”

The decision regarding Cancelo’s future will likely impact City’s preparations as they begin their pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title against Chelsea this Sunday. Guardiola’s lineup for the match will be affected by other key absences, notably that of influential midfielder Rodri.

Rodri, who was named player of the tournament at Euro 2024 following Spain’s victory, returned to Manchester City only this past Wednesday after an extended summer break. Guardiola revealed that Rodri has not yet rejoined the main training group due to a thigh injury sustained during the first half of the Euros final against England. “I think he feels good, but he has to return to training. We will see when he starts to move his body how he feels,” said Guardiola.

In addition to Rodri’s situation, Manchester City will also be without midfielder Oscar Bobb for an extended period. Bobb, who has been a promising player for City and was expected to feature in the upcoming match at Stamford Bridge, suffered a leg fracture in a non-contact incident during training. The 21-year-old Norwegian international is scheduled for surgery in Barcelona and is expected to be sidelined for up to four months.

Guardiola expressed his disappointment over Bobb’s injury, highlighting the impact it has on both the player and the team. “Unfortunately, the injury had a big impact,” said Guardiola. “We are so sad for him, but not because he made an amazing pre-season – it doesn’t matter about that. When the injury is long-term, it is a problem.”

As Manchester City prepares for their season opener against Chelsea, the club faces challenges with key players sidelined. Guardiola’s handling of Cancelo’s situation and the management of Rodri’s recovery will be crucial as City aims to maintain their dominance in English football.