There was a lot of speculation about my relationship with Pep Guardiola,’ the 28-year-old said during his first press conference, according to Sky Germany.
After completing his move from Manchester City to Bayern Munich, Joao Cancelo revealed the truth about his alleged spat with Pep Guardiola.
Cancelo has joined the German giants on loan until the end of the season, with an option to buy for €70 million (£61.5 million).
Many have been stunned by the transfer, especially given that the Citizens don’t appear to have a direct replacement lined up for the attacking full-back, who has been a key player for City since moving to the Etihad in 2019 from Juventus.
According to reports, the move came about after the player clashed with manager Pep Guardiola over his lack of game time since returning from the World Cup.
And Cancelo appears to have confirmed this, though he has remained mum on the specifics of what he said to City boss Pep Guardiola.
There was a lot of speculation about my relationship with Pep Guardiola,’ the 28-year-old said during his first press conference, according to Sky Germany.
‘But the truth is that all I wanted was more playing time. And I see that possibility at Bayern.
‘I didn’t ask Pep Guardiola about Bayern Munich because everything happened too fast. I’m eager to get started right away. I’d like to put on the Bayern Munich jersey and get started as soon as possible.
‘First and foremost, I want to concentrate on my own and the club’s objectives. Then we’ll take a seat and see what happens next.
‘I’ve had a great time at Manchester City, and it’s always been much appreciated. I’m also still under contract with City.’
‘Brazzo [Hasan Salihamidi, Bayern’s sporting director] said that we had a chance to get Cancelo,’ Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann added. “Let’s do it!” I exclaimed.
‘Then everything happened in a flash. We’ve had numerous conversations with him in the past. He brings a lot, is dynamic, and is a great reinforcement.
‘Joao is in good shape and could play tomorrow. But I’m not sure about the lineup just yet.’
Cancelo said goodbye to City fans on Instagram shortly before the transfer was confirmed, writing: ‘Once a Cityzen, always a Cityzen. Thank you very much.’
The Portugal international made 154 appearances for the club, scoring nine goals and assisting 22, and was named to the PFA Team of the Year the previous two seasons.
He won two Premier League titles, one League Cup, and advanced to the 2021 Champions League final.