Joao Cancelo decision to leave Manchester City for Bayern Munich on deadline day surprised everybody, as the move came very quickly by the time the media had caught wind. Joleon Lescott admits he was just as shocked when learning of the news but is hoping the 28-year-old will return at the end of the season.
Cancelo started just two of City’s last six Premier League games before leaving for Bayern, as Rico Lewis was preferred at right-back and Nathan Ake was preferred at left-back. The Portuguese international doesn’t take well to being dropped and issued an ultimatum which was accepted by City.
Lescott told the Manchester Evening News: “I don’t think anyone was expecting Cancelo to leave outside of the team. But I’ve been in football long enough to know there’s no surprises. He’s a great servant for the club. Hopefully it’s a loan and doesn’t mean he’s gone forever, because he’s been a great player.”
Cancelo has made 27 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals with six assists. The 28-year-old was a regular at left-back until the World Cup, losing his place after the campaign resumed, but Cancelo hadn’t been great all season.
Pep Guardiola’s decision to drop him was more than justified based on his performances, so Cancelo leaving rather than fighting for his place may have killed his chances of returning. Riyad Mahrez was in a similar position but worked hard and is now indispensable. Cancelo somewhat gave up.
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