It has been an exciting week for Barcelona fans, with the club set to complete deals to sign two key players in Joao Cancelo and Rodri.
While much of the focus has been on Rodri, who will likely be unveiled during the Joan Gamper trophy game against Al Ahly, Cancelo, too, has arrived in the city.
The Portuguese international is elated to have finally returned to Barcelona, but his move has not been made official yet.
Cancelo announcement to be delayed
According to Victor Navarro, Barcelona is not expected to officiate the Cancelo deal just yet. The announcement could be delayed by up to two to three days.
Cancelo’s announcement will take some time. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
It is unclear as to why exactly the Cancelo announcement is taking time, even though the player has already arrived in the city and has signed with Barcelona.
It is plausible that final details are yet to be completed between Barcelona and Al Hilal. Not to mention, the club will be busy preparing for the big Rodri reveal during the Joan Gamper trophy match.
Cancelo, for his part, has moved heaven and earth to join Barcelona, notably foregoing the salary he was due during the remainder of his contract at Al Hilal.
The former Juventus star is keen on playing for Barcelona again and it showed throughout the club’s pursuit of the player.
Will Cancelo play in Joan Gamper trophy?
Cancelo should be fit for the season opener. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
The delay in announcement means Barcelona won’t be able to count on the services of Joao Cancelo during the Joan Gamper trophy match against Al Ahly.
However, it must be noted that the Catalans are also unlikely to feature Rodri. The Spanish international will only unveiled in the match but he won’t necessarily play.
Both Cancelo and Rodri are expected to be fit for Barcelona’s season opener against Elche on August 23.
It will be interesting to see if Cancelo gets the right away, ahead of Alejandro Balde, whose form during the pre-season left a lot to be desired.