Joao Cancelo blasts Pep Guardiola, calls out ‘falsehoods’ and criticizes ‘ungrateful’ Manchester City in fiery tirade

In a candid interview, Joao Cancelo criticized Manchester City and Pep Guardiola's claims about his departure.

March 24, 2024

Joao Cancelo Claims Pep Guardiola Speaks Lies — Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Cancelo has launched a scathing attack on Manchester City in a candid interview, refuting claims made by Guardiola that his departure was due to a poor response to being benched. Initially loaned to Bayern Munich before moving to Barcelona, where he has since made 32 appearances, Cancelo criticized both City’s attitude and Guardiola’s assertions. Despite missing out on City’s treble victory last season, Cancelo asserted he has no regrets.

Addressing whether he anticipated consecutive loan moves, Cancelo told A Bola, “No, I really didn’t think so, but I live my life by the moment. Certain things dictated that I was loaned last year to Bayern Munich. I have no regrets, even if City won the Champions League. I feel like I made the right choice, that I went to a club that really wanted me, even before renewing my contract. It was a club that gave me a lot in the six months I was there. I dealt with great players and the club is spectacular. Then I came here, lowered my salary and I’m not bothered by it in the slightest. This was the third time I was about to come to Barcelona and I’m finally here.”

Regarding Guardiola’s claim of a negative reaction to being sidelined, Cancelo countered, “Lies were told! I’ve never been a bad team-mate for them and you can ask either (Nathan) Ake or Rico (Lewis). I don’t have any superiority or inferiority complex towards them, but that’s the manager’s opinion.”

“I stayed because it’s not true. I think Man City were a bit ungrateful to me when they said that, because I was a very important player in the years I was there. I never failed in my commitment to the club, to the fans and I always gave everything. I remember a time when I was robbed and attacked and the next day I was playing at the Emirates against Arsenal.”

“These are things you don’t forget, I left my wife and daughter alone at home, terrified. People will only remember this because Mister Guardiola has much more power than me when he says something and I prefer to keep to myself. I prefer to know that I am telling the truth, I feel fulfilled with what I did. I am a transparent person, I never lie. Life goes on and I wish everything goes well, because while I was there I enjoyed my football and the team. They remain the favourite team to win the Champions League.”

Cancelo experienced a triumphant period at City, securing three Premier League titles and the League Cup. His time at Bayern also saw success, winning the Bundesliga in the 2022-23 season. It remains to be seen if Cancelo will add to his collection of medals at Barcelona.