20 João Cancelo
João Cancelo, 1994-05-27, Defender for Portugal, plays for Al-Hilal. 55 international caps, 3 goals. Part of Portugal's 2026 World Cup Group K squad.
Biography
Barcelona full-back renowned for his attacking prowess from defence. Currently plying his trade at Al-Hilal, a dependable defender, João Cancelo combines positional intelligence with tenacious tackling, forming a key part of Portugal's backline. Has earned 55 international caps, scoring 3 goals, building significant international experience. Set to compete with Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, building on the team's 8 previous tournament appearances.
Career Timeline
The following August, Cancelo signed for Saudi club Al-Hilal, only to return to Barcelona on loan in January 2026, winning a La Liga title.
In January 2023, he was loaned to Bayern Munich, winning a Bundesliga title, while being part of City's team that won continental treble, and Barcelona in August.
In the 2020–21 season, he played a significant role in Manchester City reaching their first UEFA Champions League final.
In the summer of 2019, Cancelo joined Manchester City, he made 154 appearances for the club, and won the UEFA Champions League, three Premier League titles, two League Cups, and one FA Cup.
He was chosen in Portugal's squad for the 2019 UEFA Nations League Finals on home soil, winning the inaugural edition of the competition with his nation.
Cancelo made his senior debut for Portugal in 2016 after previously being capped by the nations's all youth team levels, winning 75 caps and scoring three goals overall.
He was also part of Portugal's under-21 team that reached the 2015 UEFA European Championship final.