Pep Guardiola’s commitment to the well-being of his former club, FC Barcelona, was evident during the recent transfer window. This commitment indirectly led to the acquisition of two valuable players from Manchester City.
In the summer, Joao Cancelo and IIkay Gundogan made the switch to FC Barcelona from Manchester City. Gundogan’s decision to turn down a contract renewal with City in favor of Barcelona was a notable move. On the other hand, Cancelo’s arrival at the La Liga Champions occurred on the deadline day through a season-long loan.
It’s worth noting that both Cancelo and Gundogan could have provided added depth to Manchester City’s squad, which witnessed several departures during the summer transfer window in the form of Riyad Mahrez, Cole Palmer, Aymeric Laporte, Benjamin Mendy and several others.
❗Pep Guardiola wants FC Barcelona to do well. If not Man City, he wants Barça to win everything.
The perfect example is Gündoğan & Cancelo. When Pep found out that Barça were interested, he didn’t put any problems for them to leave. @sport pic.twitter.com/Fosw3ZBHzb
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) September 21, 2023
Despite this, Pep Guardiola did not raise any objections when he learned of the players’ preferences to join the club where he had achieved remarkable success as a manager during the period between 2008 and 2012.
Pep Guardiola, like any manager in his position, could have taken steps to retain Cancelo or offered improved contract terms to Gundogan, who had previously served as the club captain. However, the Spanish manager opted to respect their decisions and allowed both players to depart during the summer transfer window.
Pep Guardiola revolutionized football with Barça in 2009, he was only 38 years old when he did it [via @Suarezista10 ] #Pep #ReInventingTheGame
pic.twitter.com/LebBD8N8CE— The Pep (@GuardiolaTweets) September 10, 2023
The impact of Cancelo and Gundogan on FC Barcelona’s performance has been readily apparent, especially in their strong start in both La Liga and the Champions League. Gundogan, in particular, has shone by contributing three assists in six matches, proving his worth in the absence of Pedri.
Simultaneously, Cancelo has showcased his attacking abilities, with a goal in three appearances and solidifying his position as the starting right-back for the team.
The price Manchester City expects for Joao Cancelo
Joao Cancelo has made a significant impact at the Spanish club, drawing comparisons to the legendary Dani Alves in the right-back position among the fanbase.
However, Barcelona’s management is keeping a watchful eye on his performances. With each impressive display, the price tag attached to Joao Cancelo could rise for Manchester City, and it may also attract interest from other potential suitors in the upcoming summer transfer window.
🚨 The first indications are that Atlético Madrid would want around €80m for João Félix, while Manchester City would be satisfied with roughly €25m. Barcelona will try to retain the two if their level is considered high enough throughout their entire loan spells. @ffpolo,… pic.twitter.com/WJAmz6rN8t
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) September 22, 2023
It’s crucial to note that FC Barcelona does possess an option to buy as part of this loan arrangement. According to early reports, Manchester City is seeking a fee in the vicinity of $27 million for their talented defender. Additionally, Cancelo remains under contract with Manchester City until 2027.
The sole advantage that Barcelona currently holds is the uncertainty regarding Cancelo’s playing time at Manchester City. This is because Kyle Walker has recently extended his contract with the English club. This development could potentially motivate the Portuguese player to push for a permanent transfer to Barcelona in the next summer transfer window.
