Joao Cancelo faces a decisive phase with Barcelona, as he has just over three months to convince coach Hans Flick of his worthiness to continue within the team, given his limited appearances since joining during the last winter transfer window, according to 'Sport' newspaper.

Barcelona was searching for a central defender to compensate for Christensen's injury, before deciding to sign the versatile Portuguese full-back as a suitable market opportunity. Cancelo preferred moving to Barcelona over Inter Milan, hoping to continue from the next season, but his future remains uncertain.

Since his arrival, Cancelo has played only 158 minutes, spread over three league matches and two cup games, starting in two occasions. It is noted that he arrived without competitive rhythm after a near pause with Al Hilal, and he was not registered in the UEFA Champions League during the first phase. Despite this, Flick relies on a clear core in his formation, making Cancelo currently an alternative option.

Barcelona was the player's priority from the start, and the club appreciated his previous efforts when he waived part of his financial dues during his loan from Manchester City amidst the club's difficult economic conditions. The management informed the player in January that they would seek to retain him after obtaining his free transfer from Al Hilal, provided he delivers a convincing performance.

Cancelo can play in both full-back positions, but Flick does not prefer him on the left side, which concentrates his chances in competing with Kounde on the right flank, especially since the latter is not in his best form. If the Portuguese succeeds in gaining more minutes and securing his place, the club may decide to keep him.

In planning for the next season, Barcelona prioritizes signing a distinguished striker and central defender in the summer transfer market, along with addressing the full-back issue, as they have three stable elements in the first team, with a shortage on the right side.

Cancelo's future remains tied to his performance in the upcoming phase, especially since Flick is known for managing playing minutes well to maintain the readiness of all team members, while the Portuguese player has not yet strongly entered the rotation system.