ESPN Brasil is airing today an interview with Manchester City player João Cancelo, who’s been standing out at the club this season.
Now having multiple roles in Pep Guardiola’s side, the 26-year-old spoke about his adaptation to the team, having to change the way he was used to playing.
“The mister had a lot of influence on my role now here at City,” João Cancelo told ESPN Brasil reporter Natalie Gedra.
“And I was still not very convinced of that, because it’s much more difficult than doing what I used to do, which is playing on the right side, I was always very used from a very young age, and now it’s different because I often play with my back to the opposing goal and I think I’m a better player”.
The fullback also said he had problems getting his place in the team due to the quality of other players from the same position in the squad.
“I got here and thought I was going to come and would fit in soon. Because I believe a lot in myself and a lot in my talent, and I think that’s not being convinced, it’s believing in myself. And I came here with great players, like Kyle Walker, like Mendy, like Alex Zinchenko. And that’s it, I had to work more and more”.
João Cancelo also spoke about his mother, who died in a car crash when he was still a teenager, and explains that all the achievements in his career are now dedicated to her.
“Only I know what my brother and I went through, because when my mother passed away it wasn’t a disease, it was nothing, it was a car accident. My brother and I were inside and I watched it all. As I often say to people, my mother saw me being born and I saw my mother pass away.
“In other words, that’s why I say that each title, each achievement individually is all dedicated to my mother. Because as I said, she’s the woman and the person of my life.”
Following the 5-2 win over Southampton last night, Manchester City and João Cancelo are now preparing to face Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Saturday.
Currently on top of the table, Pep Guardiola’s side are now 14 points ahead of Manchester United, despite having played an extra game.
