Manchester City have officially announced the transfer of Joao Cancelo to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. The Portuguese right-back has signed a four-year deal with the Riyadh-based club, bringing an end to his two-year spell with the Premier League champions.
Cancelo joined Man City from Juventus in 2019 for a reported fee of €65 million. He made 58 appearances for the club, helping them win the Premier League title in his debut season. However, he struggled for regular playing time under manager Pep Guardiola and was often used as a rotational option.
The 27-year-old will now be looking to reignite his career at Al Hilal, who are one of the biggest clubs in Saudi Arabia. The move comes as a surprise to many, as Cancelo had been linked with a number of top European clubs in recent months.
In a statement released by Man City, the club thanked Cancelo for his contributions during his time at the Etihad Stadium and wished him all the best for the future. Guardiola also praised the defender, describing him as a “fantastic player” and a “great professional.”
Cancelo’s departure leaves Man City in need of a new right-back, with the club reportedly targeting Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto as a potential replacement. The Catalan giants are said to be open to selling Roberto this summer as they look to raise funds for new signings.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal will be hoping that Cancelo can help them challenge for domestic and continental honors in the upcoming season. The Saudi Pro League champions are currently top of the table and are also competing in the AFC Champions League.
Overall, Cancelo’s move to Al Hilal marks the end of a brief but eventful chapter in his career at Man City. The Portuguese international will now be looking to make a fresh start in Saudi Arabia and prove his worth to his new club and fans.
