August 16th 2024.
In their first match of the season, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City will face off against Chelsea on Sunday. But the big news coming out of the City camp is the potential return of Joao Cancelo, who had a major falling out with Guardiola and left the club twice on loan.
Just five months ago, Cancelo publicly accused Guardiola of lying and called City "ungrateful" in a shocking outburst. However, it seems that the two have now reconciled and are ready to move forward. The 30-year-old full-back, who has previously spent time on loan at Bayern Munich and Barcelona, may now have a chance to make his mark on the Premier League once again.
When asked about Cancelo's future with the team, Guardiola remained vague but hinted that there may be a spot for him in the squad. "He's training with us and we will see what happens," he said on Friday. "He may stay or go out on loan. He loves to play and train, so we will see. We have a good relationship and we talk in training."
Guardiola also made it clear that Cancelo will be treated like any other player on the team, with respect and an opportunity to showcase his skills. "I have always believed in his quality," he said. "But ultimately, his future will depend on his agent. We will do what's best for the team and utilize his talents in the best way possible."
For Cancelo, this potential return to City would mark the end of a tumultuous journey. In an interview earlier this year, he responded to Guardiola's claims that he reacted poorly to being left out of the team. "Lies were told!" he exclaimed. "I've never been a bad teammate and you can ask Ake or Rico. I don't have any issues with them, but that's the manager's opinion."
He went on to express his disappointment with how City treated him, despite being a key player during his time with the club. "I never failed in my commitment to the club or the fans," Cancelo stated. "I gave my all, even when I was in a difficult situation. I remember playing against Arsenal the day after being robbed and attacked. I left my family alone and scared, but people only remember what Guardiola says because he has more power than me."
Despite the difficult circumstances, Cancelo remains positive and focused on the future. "I know I am telling the truth and I am at peace with that," he said. "I enjoyed my time at City and I wish them all the best. Life goes on and I will continue to work hard and be transparent, because that's who I am." It seems that the door is open for Cancelo to return and prove himself once again, and he is ready to take on that challenge.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
