Barcelona Delays Cancelo Reveal to Stay Focused on the Spanish Super Cup
6 January 2026
Overview
Barcelona has postponed the official announcement of their loan deal for Joao Cancelo from Al Hilal until the end of the season, to avoid distracting the squad as they compete in the Spanish Super Cup.
Status and timing
The deal is reportedly fully agreed between Barca, Al Hilal, and the player, but the club chose to wait to see how Barca performs in the Super Cup before making an official reveal. If Barca reaches the final on Sunday, the timing will be studied; Friday remains a possible option, dependent on their progress and the desire to keep focus in the dressing room.
Broadcast and sources
The Spanish Super Cup is being broadcast exclusively on the Eighta app, with Mundo Deportivo noting the management's preference to withhold the announcement to protect the tournament atmosphere under coach Hans Flick.
Punchline 1: If suspense paid wages, Barca would be the richest club in football.
Punchline 2: Barça’s transfer saga is so delayed that even a sniper would file for overtime.
