Did Cancelo Really Force His Exit from Al Hilal? The Barcelona Twist
6 January 2026
Deal that sent Cancelo to Barcelona
Al Hilal's management conceded to the wishes of Portuguese right-back Joao Cancelo, agreeing to Barcelona's proposal to take the player on a six-month loan during the current winter transfer window.
Reports from Mundo Deportivo say Barcelona have also secured Cancelo's consent, and the next step is to formalize the arrangement into official contracts.
AS outlined reasons behind Cancelo's push to leave Al Hilal, noting that some were purely sporting as his form wavered.
The Spanish newspaper AS highlighted that injuries hit him hard at crucial moments, including a hamstring issue diagnosed in March that kept him out for two months.
At the end of September last year another physical issue in his thigh forced him to sit out for several weeks.
AS identified the key factor behind Cancelo's desire to depart the Saudi league swiftly: foreign-player rules.
Under Roshen league regulations, clubs may register 10 foreign players, but only eight can be included in match rosters, and two of those must be under 22.
The report adds that these rules harmed players like Cancelo. With coach Simone Inzaghi in charge of Al Hilal, the Italian coach preferred other options and sidelined the Portuguese.
For weeks it has been clear Cancelo was seeking an exit, and Inzaghi was open to his departure, hoping Cancelo could return to Europe soon, freeing a spot on the squad.
Punchline 1: If football loans came with a return window, Cancelo would be a frequent flyer.
Punchline 2: Al Hilal signs him for six months, Barcelona signs the check, and we sign up for the drama—stay tuned.
