UEFA Champions League
Joao Cancelo arrived at FC Barcelona in the January transfer window with the intention of revitalizing his prominence at the top level. Forty days after his signing, the Portuguese full-back has hardly had continuity, and his impact has been minimal.
The defender acknowledged from the beginning that his role would not be that of an undisputed starter. However, the limited playing time is starting to raise doubts in his circle. Recent images on the bench show concentration, but also a sense of frustration.
Joao Cancelo and the lack of minutes under Hansi Flick
Joao Cancelo has been available for eight matches since his return to FC Barcelona. Of those, he only played in five and started in just two. The first of those matches was against Oviedo, where he operated as a left-back, showing promise in attack but also revealing a lack of competitive rhythm.
Subsequently, in the Copa del Rey, he regained his starting spot at right-back. An early yellow card affected his performance, leading Hansi Flick to substitute him at halftime to avoid unnecessary risks.
Since then, the Portuguese has only accumulated 12 minutes in LaLiga. He did not have opportunities at the Metropolitano or Montilivi despite the team needing solutions from the bench.
Competition and tactical decisions at FC Barcelona
The internal competition does not favor his situation. At left-back, Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martín have received Hansi Flick's trust. On the right, Jules Koundé maintains an advantage, though his performance has been inconsistent. Eric García has also been an alternative when the coach has sought defensive balance.
Joao Cancelo can play on both flanks, but that versatility has not been enough to secure a spot. The coach prioritizes defensive stability in a delicate phase of the season.

An opportunity in LaLiga and Europe
The schedule presents new opportunities. In LaLiga, the upcoming match against a defensively minded opponent may require width on the flanks. This is where Joao Cancelo could make a difference. His ability to get to the byline and create offensive overloads remains one of his main strengths.
Moreover, his inclusion in European competitions creates a new scenario. Initially unable to be registered, he now has room to become a strategic asset.
Six months to prove himself
Joao Cancelo signed for six months. He has already surpassed one without significant progress. Time is ticking, and the demands are increasing. The player is a fierce competitor not accustomed to peripheral roles; he aims to change the dynamics. He knows he must seize every opportunity he gets.
His professionalism is valued in the dressing room. Despite limited minutes, he maintains intensity in training and tactical readiness. For FC Barcelona, his international experience is an important asset. In a critical phase of the season, any impact player can be decisive.
The question is whether Hansi Flick will modify the hierarchy in the full-back positions. The team needs offensive solutions and defensive stability.
Joao Cancelo has yet to make the expected impact in his second spell at FC Barcelona, but his quality is undisputed. The challenge now is to turn his frustration into performance.
With crucial matches on the horizon in LaLiga, the Portuguese is awaiting his moment. Joao Cancelo wants to stop being a mere spectator and regain prominence before his loan expires.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Joao Cancelo está preocupado por su situación en el Barcelona
