Joao Cancelo only scores stunners: Three years later he wins the Best Goal of the Month award again

Joao Cancelo, the 32-year-old fullback, has mastered the art of making his rare goals count for something special. During his previous stint at FC Barcelona, while on loan from Manchester City in the 2023-24 season, he scored only two league goals, yet one of them was enough to secure the LaLiga Best Goal of the Month award for September. That iconic strike occurred during a 5-0 victory against Real Betis, where Cancelo attacked from the right flank, feinted with his left, cut inside past the defender, and unleashed a powerful cross-shot with his right foot that left the opposing goalkeeper completely helpless. History is now repeating itself in a remarkable fashion.

Since returning to Barcelona in the 2025-26 winter transfer window—initially on loan from Al-Hilal and now as a permanent signing—the Portuguese international has netted three goals. Two came in the previous league campaign, and his latest effort, a thunderous strike that opened the scoring in a recent 7-2 demolition of Racing, has been officially recognized as the LaLiga Best Goal of the Month for September. This marks the second time in his career that he has claimed this specific individual honor, highlighting his uncanny ability to produce highlight-reel moments whenever he finds the back of the net.

Cancelo’s journey at Barcelona has been characterized by tactical versatility and persistence. Before his recent award-winning goal, he had attempted another long-range strike against Racing, which was ultimately credited as an own goal by Villalibre after a deflection redirected a ball that was likely heading wide. This incident underscores the fine margins in professional football, where a player's intent is often overshadowed by the chaotic nature of match-day physics. Despite these minor setbacks, his impact on the pitch remains undeniable as he continues to adapt to the evolving tactical requirements of the squad.

After beginning the current LaLiga season as a substitute under manager Xavi Espart on the left side of the defense, Cancelo has successfully reclaimed his spot in the starting eleven. He has been a starter in the last two matches, signaling a shift in the team's defensive hierarchy. This transition has had significant ramifications for the squad's balance, as Cancelo's offensive prowess from the fullback position provides a unique dimension that the team was previously lacking during the opening weeks of the campaign.

Looking ahead, analysts suggest that Cancelo's role will be pivotal as Barcelona pushes for silverware this season. His ability to score from outside the box provides a necessary outlet when opposing defenses sit deep, effectively forcing them to stretch their lines. If he maintains this level of performance and consistency, he will likely remain a cornerstone of the defensive rotation. The future consequences of his resurgence are clear: he is not just a defender, but a genuine offensive threat who can change the complexion of a match with a single moment of brilliance.