Recently, Xavi Hernandez, the manager of Barcelona, made claims about Manchester City blocking their attempt to sign Joao Cancelo on loan during the January transfer window. However, Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, denied these claims, stating that no offer was received from Barcelona for Cancelo.
During the winter transfer window, Barcelona expressed interest in signing Portuguese international Joao Cancelo on loan after his fallout with Pep Guardiola. However, their pursuit was unsuccessful as Cancelo eventually joined Bayern Munich instead. Xavi Hernandez believed that Manchester City played a role in preventing Barcelona from signing Cancelo, stating that City did not want to allow the transfer to happen.
Pep Guardiola Denies Barcelona’s Claims
Pep Guardiola completely denied Barcelona’s claims, asserting that Manchester City never received an offer for Joao Cancelo. Guardiola mentioned that Xavi Hernandez was misinformed, highlighting that Cancelo went to Bayern Munich because they wanted him. He clarified that City had decided to let Cancelo leave, regardless of his destination, even if it meant going to their city rivals, Manchester United.
Barcelona’s Ongoing Interest and Competition from Arsenal
Despite failing to secure Cancelo’s signing in January, Barcelona remains interested in acquiring him on loan during the summer. However, as of now, it appears that Arsenal is leading the race for his signature, as they are ready to sign him permanently.
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During a press interaction, Guardiola shared his thoughts on Barcelona’s progress under Xavi. He expressed confidence that Barcelona is on the right track and can succeed in Europe with time. Guardiola acknowledged Xavi and Mateu Alemany’s knowledge of what needs to be done, emphasizing Barcelona’s defensive phase injuries and certain refereeing decisions that affected their Champions League campaign.
Guardiola on Barcelona’s Financial Difficulties and Laporta’s Efforts
Pep Guardiola discussed the financial difficulties faced by Barcelona, attributing them to the actions of previous club management. He commended current President Joan Laporta for making a tremendous effort to rectify the situation and renew the team, ultimately leading them to win La Liga.
Guardiola expressed his hopes for Xavi to continue as Barcelona’s coach for a long time before eventually passing the baton to someone like Sergio Busquets. However, Guardiola ruled out a possible return to the club, stating that his stage as Barcelona coach is over.
