From humble beginnings in Barreiro, Portugal, João Cancelo rose to become one of the most versatile full-backs in modern football. His journey has been marked by relentless determination and an insatiable desire to improve, both on and off the pitch. With his ability to play on either side of the field and contribute both defensively and offensively, Cancelo has become a crucial asset for any team he plays for.
Cancelo’s Impact on the Modern Game: Revolutionizing the Full-Back Position
Traditionally, full-backs were seen as defensive players whose main role was to stop opposing attackers and provide support to the central defenders. However, with the evolution of the sport, the role of the full-back has transformed into a more offensive one. In today’s game, full-backs are expected to not only defend but also make overlapping runs and contribute to the attack.
Technical Skills: The Foundation of Cancelo’s Impact
Cancelo’s technical abilities are what make him such a valuable player on the field. His passing accuracy, vision, and ability to create chances have all been crucial in revolutionizing the full-back position. Cancelo is known for his ability to pick out teammates with precision passes, often initiating plays from deep in his own half.
His crossing ability is also top-notch, with both feet being equally capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box. This adds an extra dimension to his attacking game and makes it difficult for opposition defenders to predict his next move. His close control and dribbling skills also allow him to beat defenders in one-on-one situations, creating space for himself and his teammates.
Cancelo’s technical skills also extend to his defensive capabilities. His speed and agility help him track back and win back possession for his team. He is also strong in tackles and aerial duels, making him a complete package when it comes to defending.
Adaptability: The Key to Cancelo’s Success
One of the most remarkable traits of Cancelo as a player is his adaptability. As mentioned earlier, he is comfortable playing on either side of the field, but that is not the only aspect of his game that makes him adaptable. Cancelo is known for his ability to seamlessly slot into different formations and play styles, making him an ideal fit for any team.
Cancelo: A Case Study in Player Development and Transfer Value
Cancelo’s journey as a player has been one of continuous growth and development. From his early days at Benfica to his current stint at Manchester City, he has constantly improved and honed his skills to become a world-class player. His transfer history is a testament to his quality and value as a player.
Early Days at Benfica: Laying the Foundation
Cancelo began his footballing journey at Benfica’s youth academy, where he spent seven years developing his skills and understanding of the game. He made his senior team debut in 2012, but it wasn’t until the 2014-15 season that he became a regular starter for the Portuguese side.
During his time at Benfica, Cancelo played mostly as a right-back, honing his defensive abilities while also showcasing his attacking prowess. His performances caught the eye of many top European clubs, and in 2015, he was signed by Valencia for a fee of €15 million.
Valencia: A Stepping Stone to Success
Cancelo’s time at Valencia was marked by consistent growth and improvement. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Spanish side, playing as a right-back or a wing-back depending on the team’s formation. His versatility and adaptability were on full display during his time at Valencia, as he seamlessly fit into the team’s tactics under different managers.
His impressive performances led to interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but it was Juventus who secured his services in 2018, signing him on an initial loan deal with an option to buy for €40 million.
Juventus: Reaching New Heights
Cancelo’s stint at Juventus proved to be a turning point in his career. Under Allegri and Sarri, he became a crucial part of the team’s success, winning two Serie A titles and reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. His adaptability and skill were on full display during his time at Juventus, as he played in both full-back positions and also as a wing-back.
In 2019, Juventus exercised their option to buy Cancelo permanently for €40 million, but the following year, he was sold to Manchester City for a fee of €65 million – almost double the amount Juventus paid for him just a year before. This is a testament to Cancelo’s development as a player and his increasing transfer value in the market.
Manchester City: The Peak of Cancelo’s Career
Cancelo’s move to Manchester City has proven to be a masterstroke for both the player and the team. In his first season with the club, he helped them win the Premier League title and reach the final of the UEFA Champions League. His performances have been nothing short of exceptional, showcasing his versatility, adaptability, and skill in every game.
Conclusion
João Cancelo’s legacy as a player is one defined by adaptability and skill. His impact on the modern game has been significant, revolutionizing the full-back position and setting new standards for the role. His development as a player and increasing transfer value make him a valuable asset for any team.