Portugal international João Cancelo can hardly wait for his first appearance for FC Bayern. “I feel absolutely ready to start. I’m happy when I can play in the Bayern jersey. It’s very important that we get through in the cup,” said the 28-year-old, who the Munich team signed shortly before the end of the transfer period. First of all, the full-back is on loan from the Pep Guardiola Club until the end of the season. According to media reports, Bayern have a purchase option for the World Cup participant, whose market value is estimated at 70 million euros. Will Cancelo already play in the round of 16 at FSV Mainz 05 on Wednesday evening (8.45 p.m. / ARD and Sky)?
“He fits perfectly into our system with his attacking style of play and his dynamism, and also very well with our team with his mentality and experience. I’m convinced that João will help us in the coming weeks and months when we want to win titles.” , said sports director Hasan Salihamidzic. Previously this winter he had signed Yann Sommer from Borussia Mönchengladbach and the recently unemployed former Ajax professional Daley Blind.
His previous positions
After stints in Portugal, Spain, Italy and England, family man Cancelo now wants to become champion in Germany as well. What he still lacks is winning the handle pot in the Champions League. “FC Bayern is a great club, one of the best clubs in the world, and it’s a huge motivation for me to now be in a team with these extraordinary players,” said Cancelo. “I know that this club, this team, lives for titles and wins titles every year. I am also driven by the hunger for success – I will do my best for FC Bayern.” His contract with City runs until 2027.
The Portuguese has appeared 45 times in the premier class, scoring four goals and contributing twelve assists. Cancelo could play a decisive role in the round of 16 duel against the super offensive from Paris Saint-Germain with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Neymar. First of all, however, the duel against Mainz is pending. “He’s fit, theoretically he’s able to play,” said coach Julian Nagelsmann.
He still knows Sané from their times together at City
The Portuguese knows one Bayern star better: Leroy Sané. But he didn’t get any great advice from the German national player when he made the change quickly. “I haven’t spoken to him before. Of course we know each other from our time at City,” said the 28-year-old. “I didn’t have to ask a colleague, I knew how big FC Bayern is. I’m very happy to be here and to show my footballing qualities.”
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