Joao Cancelo has claimed he has dreamed since he was a little boy to wear the Red and Blue of Barcelona.

In an interview with Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo said, “Manchester City is the best team in the world, yes, but when Barcelona calls you, you have to go”.

Joao Cancelo happy with life in Barcelona

After falling out with City boss Pep Guardiola, Cancelo was shipped out on loan to Bayern Munich during the second half of last season.

The 29-year-old attack-minded full-back had lost his place at the time to City youngster Rico Lewis, a right-back by trade, and was deemed surplus to requirements by his Catalan manager.

Cancelo has happy memories of his time at City, however, adding, “My family knows that my dream club was always Barça. My life is always about risk, but I’ll be thankful with Man City. Always.”

The Portuguese, like his compatriot Joao Felix, is hopeful of making his loan deal with the Catalans permanent next summer.

Cancelo said, “It’s up to Barça and my performances — as if you perform, the club usually want you to stay. If not, forget about staying.”