Joao Cancelo's next stop is Saudi Arabia
Manchester City have confirmed the sale of full-back Joao Cancelo to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal for £21.2 million.
The move concludes a tumultuous period for the Portugal international, who had not featured for City since early 2023.
Cancelo, 30, joined Manchester City from Juventus in 2019 and quickly established himself as a key player. He was named in the Premier League Team of the Year for two consecutive seasons, 2020-21 and 2021-22, highlighting his importance to Pep Guardiola's squad.
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After a successful spell on loan at Bayern Munich during the second half of the 2022-23 season, Cancelo's time at City was further interrupted by another loan move to Barcelona in the 2023-24 campaign.
His departure follows a period where he fell out of favor at City. The club's management had concerns about his potential impact on team dynamics after losing his starting position, leading to his eventual exit.
Cancelo’s exit marks a significant shift for the Premier League champions, who have made around £150 million in player sales this summer.
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This financial move is part of City’s strategy to meet the Premier League's profit and sustainability regulations.
At Al Hilal, Cancelo will join a growing list of high-profile players making their way to Saudi Arabia, further enhancing the league's competitive stature and global appeal.
The transfer also allows Manchester City to reinvest in their squad, continuing their pursuit of domestic and European glory.
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Cancelo's departure marks the end of an era for a player who once dazzled in City’s colors but whose journey has now taken a new direction in the Saudi Pro League.