The fallout of Joao Cancelo’s move to Bayern Munich is one of much discussion currently in the City fanbase. Due to the immediate nature of his departure and City proceeding to sanction the loan move despite limited cover in his position, there must have been a large disagreement between the player and the club. Details emerged today about what really led to the full-back’s move to the German champions.
Joao Cancelo has joined Bayern Munich on loan until the end of the season.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 31, 2023
Sam Lee/@SamLee and Pol Ballus/@PolBallus reported that the breakdown in relations started with the away trip to Stamford Bridge in early January, where Cancelo was apparently furious at the fact he was substituted at half-time in City’s 1-0 win. The full-back was so annoyed he had to be calmed down by his City teammates in the dressing room.
The next outburst from Cancelo occurred when the Portuguese international was named on the substitutes bench for City’s 3-0 win against Wolves in the Premier League on January 22nd. Soon after he arrived at the Etihad Stadium, Cancelo walked from the team bus to the City dugout and sat on the bench by himself. Rumours circulated at half-time that Cancelo was on the phone with his agent asking for a move away from the club.
The final straw of Cancelo’s time at City came after the Blue’s 1-0 FA Cup victory against Arsenal, in which Cancelo was once again an unused substitute. City staff felt that the full-back did not pay attention in tactical meetings and did not listen to instructions. Pep Guardiola and his staff then decided enough was enough, and it was best for all parties if Cancelo moved on.
Despite him being a fantastic player and one of the best in the world in his position, a toxic relationship between both Cancelo and the club was not healthy and would only deter as the season progressed. It is yet to be seen whether Cancelo has a future at City once his loan move concludes.