Cancelo challenges critics to ‘come down and face the pressure’

Joao Cancelo has responded to the criticism aimed at him following Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain, challenging those who comment from the stands to experience the pressure of playing themselves.

The Portugal full-back was heavily criticised by supporters and analysts after his performance at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday in the third round of the Champions League. The result was Barcelona’s first defeat of the season, ending an impressive run of 11 consecutive victories.

With the Clasico only hours away, Cancelo broke his silence in a strongly worded post on Instagram.

“Everyone claims to be an expert from the stands. I would like to see them come down to the pitch and deal with the pressure,” he wrote.

Cancelo accompanied the message with Michael Jackson’s song They Don’t Care About Us, making clear his apparent indifference to the noise surrounding him.

The Barcelona defender also referred to a saying by Brazilian professor Marcela Matos, whose writings seek to awaken people’s consciences. In a separate post, he emphasised his belief in himself, writing: “I am the only one who does not doubt myself.”

His comments were a direct defence of his performance against Paris Saint-Germain, particularly the criticism of his defensive work. His attacking contribution, however, was not questioned.

Cancelo continues to have the full confidence of manager Hansi Flick and Barcelona’s board. The club renewed its faith in him during the summer by agreeing a three-year contract extension that runs until June 2029.