Joao Cancelo unexpectedly had no impact on Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup match on Friday. City secured their place in the fifth round. Guardiola has not used Cancelo recently.
City announced their starting lineup but kept the 28-year-old on the bench. Pep Guardiola didn’t substitute him, which may indicate that there is more going on than just his recent slump in form. Following Pep’s remarks regarding his negative attitude during training, some media outlets have already predicted a backlash.
When playing against Arsenal, Rico Lewis started at right-back and lasted over an hour. Kyle Walker came on in the second half. Given how effectively Nathan Ake was playing, Cancelo had little chance of entering the game.
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The Portuguese international has made 26 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing two goals and five assists. Although he is a substitute in Guardiola City’s previous three domestic cup games or any of their last five Premier League games.
Being placed on the bench contrasts sharply with how Cancelo was treated during the previous campaign. He is clearly not in Pep’s good graces. In 2021/22, the 28-year-old made 52 appearances, starting 51 of them. Despite only being replaced three times throughout the entire campaign, he is no longer seen as essential. Cancelo needs to make his mark again in the City squad and in the eyes of Guardiola.
The media will undoubtedly cover this…
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