Barcelona Loanee Cancelo Targeted with Vile Online Abuse After Champions League Defeat
Joao Cancelo, a Manchester City player currently on loan at Barcelona, has been subjected to an appalling torrent of online abuse in the wake of Barcelona’s Champions League elimination against Paris Saint-Germain.
Death Threats and Abuse Target Cancelo’s Family
In a heartbreaking interview with ESPN, Cancelo revealed the disturbing nature of the abuse, which targeted not only him but also his family members.
Most shockingly, the online attacks included threats directed at his unborn child.
“There are comments on Instagram wishing death upon my daughter who’s not even been born yet,” he said.
“They would not dare say it to my face… They write whatever they want behind a screen. Wishing death upon a baby is truly horrific. People don’t seem to understand that there’s a human being behind the footballer they see on television. We have feelings too.”
The abuse has clearly taken an emotional toll on The Portuguese Defender. He admitted to struggling with sleep following the defeat, highlighting the significant impact these online attacks can have on a player’s well-being.
Cancelo Owns Up to Costly Penalty in Defeat
The Portuguese Defender was a central figure in a controversial moment during the match against PSG.
A reckless challenge on former Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele resulted in a penalty awarded to the Parisians.
This decision proved to be a turning point in the tie, shifting momentum in PSG’s favor.
In the interview, The Portuguese Defender acknowledged the error in his judgment and accepted criticism from pundits, including former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand who labeled the tackle “silly.”
“Ferdinand was a great player, but I’m sure he’s made mistakes on the pitch as well,” Cancelo said.
“We all do. He has the right to express his opinion, and I respect that. I accept the criticism. Maybe the way I went into that challenge was childish, but considering the intensity of the game and the emotional state I was in at that moment, well, I take responsibility for my mistake.”
Cancelo Seeks Redemption in El Clasico Clash
Despite the online abuse and the Champions League disappointment, The Portuguese Defender remains determined to contribute positively on the pitch.
He expressed his desire to move forward and focus on helping Barcelona secure a victory against their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the upcoming La Liga fixture.
WIERD CHOICE? Jose Mourinho backed as Xavi’s replacement next season
