Joao Cancelo Joins Al Hilal: A New Chapter in Saudi Arabian Football

Manchester City has sold Portugal fullback Joao Cancelo to Saudi Arabian champion Al Hilal for 25 million euros. Cancelo joins a squad that includes Brazil's Neymar and Portugal's Ruben Neves. Falling out of favor with City manager Pep Guardiola, Cancelo spent time on loan at Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

Manchester City has transferred Portugal fullback Joao Cancelo to Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal for a sum of 25 million euros ($28 million).

Cancelo is set to join an already star-studded squad featuring Neymar from Brazil and his Portugal teammate Ruben Neves.

The 30-year-old defender fell out of favor with City manager Pep Guardiola midway through the 2022-23 season, leading to loan spells at Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Upon returning to City in the offseason, it was clear he wasn't in the club's plans for the upcoming Premier League season.

Al Hilal, a powerhouse in the Saudi Pro League with 19 titles to their name, has dominated the competition by clinching the championship in six of the past eight seasons.

(With inputs from agencies.)