Joao Cancelo acknowledges the discontent among Inter fans following his transfer to Juventus in 2018, yet he asserts the prominence of the Nerazzurri, positioning them as being second only to Manchester City presently. The Portuguese international recently conducted an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, elucidating on the forthcoming Champions League encounter between his current club, Barcelona, and Napoli. Furthermore, the former Inter and Juventus defender deliberated upon his professional trajectory and prospective endeavors, particularly in light of his loan status from Manchester City until the culmination of the season.
“I was lucky enough to play for only big teams. I am proud of my career because nobody has ever gifted me anything. I’ve conquered everything with sacrifice,” he said.
“I know nothing yet [about the future], but I’d like to stay here. I grew up watching Ronaldinho’s Barcelona. He’s my idol. I am proud to wear this jersey, and there aren’t other clubs I can join, right?”
In reflecting upon his tenure spanning two years in Serie A, Cancelo expressed, “It was characterized by magnificence, both on and off the field. I am cognizant of the discontent among Inter supporters regarding my transfer to Juventus, and I extend my apologies, as I maintain close relationships within the Milan community.
“At a human level, Italy is the country most similar to Portugal, and I was really happy to play there.”
Inter will face Atletico Madrid, a Spanish club, on Wednesday subsequent to their attainment of a 1-0 victory in the initial leg of the Champions League Round of 16 fixtures a fortnight prior.
“They are similar teams and I expect a big game between two big clubs,” said Cancelo.
“Anything can happen even if Inter always win and have the Scudetto in their hands. Right now, they are at the top, only second to Man City. Pep Guardiola’s side is favourite to win [the Champions League] because of their players, playing style and coach. They are the only team to have won eight games from eight, but after them, there’s Inter.”
In 51 Serie A appearances, João Cancelo has demonstrated his prowess by notching two goals and contributing six assists.
Hailing from Portugal, the defender previously plied his trade with Inter during the 2017-18 season before transferring to Juventus for the 2018-19 campaign. Subsequently, in the summer of 2019, Cancelo embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining Manchester City in a transfer arrangement which saw Danilo move in the opposite direction as part of a player-plus-cash exchange.