Barcelona defender expected to be available for Granada game after early substitution vs Alaves

Joao Cancelo was one of the few Barcelona stars who struggled to make an impact during Barcelona’s win over Alaves on Saturday.

The Portuguese international had a poor game on the flanks, often struggling to get a grip on Alex Sola.

Despite the defender’s poor form, Cancelo’s substitution at half-time was a surprise to many and set off alarm bells within the Barcelona faithful.

The 29-year-old, after all, has only recently made his return from an injury layoff and Barcelona cannot afford to have him aggravate his injury.

Cancelo to be available against Granada

Fortunately, there was nothing serious regarding Cancelo’s fitness against Alaves and it appears Xavi had taken the defender off at half-time only as a precaution.

This is according to Javi Miguel, who confirms that Cancelo is likely to be available in Barcelona’s next league game against Granada.

Cancelo should be fit for Granada clash (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

The Portuguese international should be fit for that encounter, although there is no question that the player must improve his performance.

After returning from an injury, the former Juventus starlet has failed to produce good performances, which should be a worrying sign for Barça.

The Catalans, nevertheless, hold immense trust in the Manchester City loanee and are likely to make every effort to try and sign him on a permanent deal in the summer.

Manchester City are reportedly asking for a fee of €25 million for Cancelo, which, in hindsight, could prove to be a bargain. But Barça are likely to try and lower the cost of the operation further.

As for Cancelo himself, he will be keen on regaining full fitness before the Granada clash. With the Champions League matches just around the corner, the Portuguese international’s expertise could prove to be paramount for Barcelona.