Cancelo's Barca return already under scrutiny as Flick looks elsewhere

"One month in, it feels anything but simple. The numbers are thin. Two starts. Two appearances off the bench. Not much rhythm, not much continuity. Against Girona, the message landed harder than any stat line. When Alejandro Balde needed a breather, Hansi Flick did not turn to Cancelo. He sent on Gerard Martín, a player more used to operating centrally this season."

"They are framing this as a political signing more than a sporting one. "Many believe the deal was closed solely because of the excellent relationship between Jorge Mendes, the player's agent, and the club's hierarchy... Cancelo is the last of the reserves," Tuttosport wrote. The explanation in January was that defensive reinforcements were needed after the problems suffered by Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araújo. Cancelo could cover both flanks and could help the defensive line's depth."

João Cancelo pursued a return to Barcelona despite other January options, including Inter. Playing time has been scarce, with two starts and two substitute appearances, producing limited rhythm and continuity. Hansi Flick has often preferred other options in-game, illustrated by Gerard Martín replacing Alejandro Balde instead of Cancelo. Italian outlets and Inter observers view the decision critically, suggesting a larger role awaited at Inter. Reports have connected the move to Jorge Mendes' relationship with club hierarchy, while tactical needs reportedly prioritized a center-back to cover Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araújo's issues.

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