Eric Garcia of FC Barcelona, Joao Cancelo of FC Barcelona celebrating the championship during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona v Real Madrid at the Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona Spain (Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images” />
Joao Cancelo did not hold back in his criticism of Al-Hilal following Barcelona’s 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in El Clásico on Sunday night, which sealed the La Liga title for the Catalan club.
The Portugal international joined Barcelona on loan during the winter transfer window and, after the match, reflected on the difficulties he faced at the Saudi Pro League side.
“Unfortunately, at Al-Hilal, there were people who didn’t tell me the truth. They promised to register me on the Saudi league list, but when the deadline came, they didn’t,” Cancelo told reporters. “And then I’m always the one labeled with a bad personality… But at least I keep my word—I never change that. I’ve always been the same person. I’m direct and hold no grudges. Now I’m here, very happy, and I’ve won a title with Barcelona, which, for me, is the best club in the world.”
When asked about his future, Cancelo admitted uncertainty but expressed his affection for Barcelona.
“Barça is a very special club to me—even before coming here, I was a fan. Winning the league with this club means a lot. Let’s see what happens, because, as you know, I’m on loan from Al-Hilal,” he added. “I know what I want, but I can’t say it publicly. We’ll see.”
Barcelona are reportedly keen to keep Cancelo beyond the current season, but would need to negotiate a deal with Al-Hilal, as the defender still has one year remaining on his contract.