Bitter 're-debut' for Joao Cancelo with Barça in LaLiga

FC Barcelona could not overcome Real Sociedad at Anoeta (2-1) in a match where the Catalan team was clearly superior, but a lack of finishing, bad luck in front of goal, and refereeing controversies combined in favor of the San Sebastian side. In the official 're-debut' of Joao Cancelo in a Blaugrana shirt, Barça ended a streak of 11 victories, 9 of them in LaLiga.

The Portuguese full-back was registered with the number '2' shirt this week and, after remaining on the bench on Thursday against Racing (0-2), he added his first 28 minutes of the season after coming on for Alejandro Balde in the 62nd minute

The Portuguese player started as a left-back, spending most of his time in the opponent's half with a Barça team pushing for an equalizer. After Jules Koundé's departure and Gerard Martín's entry in the 85th minute, he moved to the right side of an improvised defense, with Frenkie de Jong as a center-back alongside Eric García

Cancelo was close to getting his first assist with Barça

In general terms, Cancelo had a good performance on his return to the Blaugrana squad, although he was somewhat imprecise in his passing. The player from Barreiro **completed 14 out of 18 passes (78%), one dribble, and 6 defensive actions** in the 28 minutes he was on the field.

**Before Koundé's departure, Joao served a perfect cross from the left that allowed the Frenchman to anticipate with a header. Unfortunately for the Cules, the shot went directly to the crossbar and, from there, into the hands of Álex Remiro, the MVP of the match with 8 saves and a notable performance.

Joao Cancelo: Satisfied with his debut, but sad about the defeat

After the match at Anoeta, Joao Cancelo spoke with 'DAZN' about his feelings after his 're-debut' with Barcelona. The 31-year-old defender expressed his satisfaction with his first minutes and valued the opportunity to play under Hansi Flick.

"Flick has asked me for overflow and one-on-one. **Although I've missed some passes, I think I entered the game well**," the player from Barreiro began. Regarding his role on the field, he added: "**They want versatility because I can play on both wings** and my experience to help the younger players."

Finally, regarding the result, he believes it does not reflect the course of the match. "We were better and created many chances, but football is like that and, sometimes, these things happen. They defended well and scored two good goals," Cancelo pointed out