Markets
João Cancelo Leaves Al Hilal, Set to Rejoin Barcelona as Free Agent
João Cancelo has officially parted ways with Al Hilal, allowing him to return to FC Barcelona as a free agent. Cancelo previously made a significant impact during his loan at Barcelona in the latter half of the 2025-26 season.
Initially joining Barcelona on loan in January 2026 for approximately €4 million, Cancelo's performance left both him and the club eager for a more permanent arrangement. After his return to Saudi Arabia, he expressed his desire to return to Barcelona on social media, further solidifying his intentions.
Despite Al Hilal's attempts to negotiate a transfer fee, initially set at €10 million and later raised to €15 million, Barcelona aimed to secure Cancelo either as a free agent or for a minimal fee. Al Hilal's manager, Simone Inzaghi, indicated that decisions regarding Cancelo's future were beyond his control, leading to his exclusion from the squad for the opening match of the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season.
By leaving Al Hilal without a transfer fee, Cancelo achieves his desired move, while Barcelona avoids the financial burden of a €15 million transfer. However, Al Hilal is left without compensation for a player they valued highly.
Barcelona's financial situation remains delicate, as they must navigate La Liga's financial fair play regulations even when signing free agents.
FAQ
Why did João Cancelo leave Al Hilal?
João Cancelo left Al Hilal to return to FC Barcelona as a free agent, expressing his desire to rejoin the club after a successful loan period.
What was João Cancelo's impact during his loan at Barcelona?
During his loan at Barcelona in the latter half of the 2025-26 season, Cancelo made a significant impact, leading both him and the club to seek a more permanent arrangement.
How much did Barcelona initially pay for Cancelo's loan?
Barcelona initially paid approximately €4 million for João Cancelo's loan in January 2026.
What were Al Hilal's attempts regarding Cancelo's transfer fee?
Al Hilal attempted to negotiate a transfer fee for Cancelo, initially set at €10 million and later raised to €15 million, but Barcelona aimed to secure him as a free agent or for a minimal fee.
How does Cancelo's departure affect Al Hilal financially?
By leaving Al Hilal without a transfer fee, Cancelo's departure means that Al Hilal will not receive any compensation for a player they valued highly.