News broke today of Joao Cancelo’s winter loan move to German giants, Bayern Munich, with reports claiming that the Bundesliga leaders will have an “option to buy” clause for around 61 million – not a bad return for a player swap + 27m.
The deal was one that came out of the “blue”, with rumours following only moments behind, claiming an alleged row that threatened to become physical between Cancelo and the gaffer.
Squaring up to Pep in training was final straw for Cancelo. Some players went nuts at Cancelo after.
— Blue Tone (@MCFCTone) January 30, 2023
Had to go 👍🏻🔵
Interesting club of choice, as the Portuguese is not the only player to head to Bayern after allegedly not getting on with the manager due to moody or poor attitudes.
According to all those “in the know” on social media, the “bust up” was a result of Cancelo confronting Pep over a lack of playing time.
However, the Portuguese has not really hit form all season, whereas Nathan Ake, who has taken his spot at left back, has been one of the most consistent players for the blues this season.
With his other position at right back seeing competition from the emergence of impressive youngster, Rico Lewis. Who has wowed Pep and fans; it has been understandable why Pep has chosen to leave him out.
Some blues voiced concerns over social media with the assumption that there are “issues” behind the scenes.
Others are thrilled to see Pep and the club solidify the “no one is bigger than the club” mentality.
Can’t believe that this is the way Joao Cancelo decided to end his City-career. Unprofessional and incredibly sad. All these years and everything he’s won and done for the club literally shattered within hours. Way too many players nowadays are too cocky
— Real Talk Manchester City (@RealTalkMCFC) January 30, 2023
Fans will wonder what this means for the rest of the season. Pep has consistently achieved greatness with the club despite playing midfielders as defenders, midfielders as strikers and I have no doubt that should we not find the ideal replacement, the boss will find a way to exceed expectations.