Barcelona Optimistic Regarding Joao Cancelo Knee Injury

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During Thursday’s 2-1 victory over Las Palmas, Cancelo suffered a knee injury, sparking initial concerns of a potential season-ending ACL injury just 11 minutes into the game.

Manager Xavi, however, swiftly alleviated fears, stating, “Joao Cancelo’s knee injury doesn’t look serious.

We hope it’s just a knock, we will know more tomorrow about it.” Barcelona diagnosed Cancelo with a “strained medial collateral ligament,” suggesting a few weeks of recovery.

Although Cancelo will be absent from Sunday’s Copa del Rey clash with Barbastro, there’s optimism, as per Marca, that the Portugal international might return for the Supercopa next week.

Barcelona is set to confront Osasuna in the semi-final on January 11, a week after Cancelo’s injury, with the final scheduled three days later.

Should Barcelona advance, their opponent in the final will be either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

In Cancelo’s absence, Xavi may deploy one of his centre-backs in a wide role, with Ronald Araujo frequently stepping in at full-back, and Jules Kounde also capable of fulfilling that position.

There’s optimism for midfielder Pedri’s return from injury for the Supercopa, while center-back Inigo Martinez is reportedly fit but won’t be risked against Barbastro.

However, Gavi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Marcos Alonso remain sidelined for Xavi’s team.

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