Cancelo Reveals Reason for Dispute with Guardiola: “I Still Think It Was Unfair”
Barcelona loanee João Cancelo has opened up about his departure from Manchester City, attributing it to a disagreement with manager Pep Guardiola following the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese international also lauded the influence of current Al Hilal manager Jorge Jesus, crediting him with a pivotal role in his move to Saudi Arabia.
Reunion with Jorge Jesus
Cancelo described his reunion with Jorge Jesus as “remarkably special,” explaining that the manager’s desire to sign him was a key factor in his decision to join Al Hilal. “The decision for me to go to Al Hilal came largely from him,” Cancelo stated, as reported by various outlets translating his interview with Canal 11. “Al Hilal had another idea, but he said he only wanted me. That captivates me.” He also noted that several players at Manchester City had encouraged him to stay, but Jesus’s decisive approach ultimately swayed him.
Cancelo emphasized Jesus’s enduring qualities as a coach, despite any changes with time. “He’s practically the same, although there are things he doesn’t have as much patience for now,” Cancelo said. “The desire he has to live football the way he does at 70 years old… Jorge Jesus is one of the best coaches I’ve had in my career. Those who know him… I know him well, very well. He adores me, and I adore him. I can say he has a heart of gold.”
Career Decisions and Self-Reflection
The versatile full-back also reflected on his career trajectory, suggesting that his personality may have prevented him from establishing longer tenures at previous clubs like Manchester City, and Juventus. “I feel that sometimes, due to my personality, I could have stayed longer at a club,” Cancelo admitted. “At City or Juventus. Because of my irreverence, sometimes without reason. Often without reason. Today I can admit that, due to the maturity I have now.” Despite this, he expressed pride in his accomplishments and a sense of fulfillment in his career thus far.
The Guardiola Dispute and City Exit
The core of Cancelo’s recent comments centered on the circumstances surrounding his departure from Manchester City. He revealed that a discussion with Guardiola following his return from the 2022 World Cup led to the manager informing him he was no longer wanted. “I came from the World Cup and I and the mister (Guardiola) had a discussion and he didn’t want me there anymore,” Cancelo explained. He subsequently joined Bayern Munich on loan and maintains he has no regrets about that decision.
Cancelo clarified that the situation wasn’t as dramatic as some reports suggested. “People sometimes paint it as something very serious. It wasn’t,” he said. “He said, ‘Look, João, I’m not satisfied with what you’re doing in training and I want you to leave.’ I thought it was very unfair and I still do. But he’s the coach, he’s in charge. And I followed my path.” He acknowledged a lingering sense of disappointment, given his belief that he was a valuable asset to the team, and that the team recognized his importance.
Despite the disagreement, Cancelo holds Guardiola in high regard, describing him as a “genius” and the best coach he has ever had. “He’s a person I have a lot of admiration for, because for me he’s a genius,” Cancelo stated. “He’s the best coach I’ve had in my career. And he made me reach the highest level I could reach. He got all the juice out of me. I would go onto the field and already know I was going to have a great game.”
Currently on loan with Barcelona from Al Hilal, Cancelo’s career continues to evolve. As of March 22, 2026, according to Transfermarkt, he has made 32 appearances for Barcelona during his current loan spell, scoring two goals. He also continues to represent the Portugal national team, having earned 64 caps and scored 12 goals as of November 16, 2025, according to Wikipedia.
The situation highlights the complex dynamics between players and managers at the highest level of professional football, and the often-challenging decisions players must make to navigate their careers. Cancelo’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a top club and the personal impact of such decisions.
Next up for Cancelo is a La Liga clash with Atlético Madrid on April 6th, a crucial match in Barcelona’s pursuit of the league title. Fans can follow updates on the official Barcelona website and through La Liga’s official social media channels.
