Technically exceptional Portuguese full-back whose ability to invert into midfield redefined the modern defender role under Pep Guardiola.
João Pedro Cavaco Cancelo was born in Barreiro, Portugal on 27 May 1994. After spells at Benfica, Valencia and Inter Milan, he joined Juventus before moving to Manchester City in 2019 for £60 million. Under Pep Guardiola, he transformed into one of the most innovative full-backs in world football, inverting into midfield and creating chances. He won three Premier League titles (2021, 2022, 2023), the Champions League in 2023, the FA Cup and League Cups. He made over 150 appearances for City. He has earned over 55 caps for Portugal. He later went on loan to Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
Premier League 3x
His role under Guardiola — playing as an inverted full-back who drifted into central midfield — was so innovative it changed how coaches around the world think about full-backs.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- Premier League 3x
- Champions League 2023
- FA Cup 1x
- League Cup 4x