Inigo Martinez has offered rare inside clarity on Joao Cancelo's expected return to Barcelona, confirming the move came directly from the player himself. Speaking from Saudi Arabia, where both currently live, Martinez explained that the decision was already made in Cancelo's mind long before reports surfaced publicly.
SoftFootball earlier revealed that Barcelona had reopened talks with Al Hilal as they pushed to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the season run-in, a move later backed by the club hierarchy.
Martinez's comments as shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account line up with reports from SoftFootball that Hansi Flick personally approved Cancelo's loan return , viewing him as a key boost for balance and experience.
