The Portuguese right-back has revealed he has been admiring his new club’s style of play from afar and feels the approach implemented by Pep Guardiola matches his own beliefs about how the game should be played.
A defender who epitomises attack being the best form of defence, Cancelo says City’s tactical set up was an important factor in his decision to swap Juventus for Manchester.
“The way I see football, City are almost a perfect team,” he said.
“I think the way they play is amazing. They are always attacking, yet defending at the same time and always with high pressure.
“My decision was based on this. It’s the kind of style that, as a spectator, I enjoy watching.
“It’s a great club and I’m very happy to be here, to be able to experience English football.
“I’ve hoped to come here for a while, so it’s a big step in my career.”
It’s a step he feels ready to make, largely because he is convinced the reigning Premier League champions play in a way that will get the best out of him as a player.
The 25-year-old, who describes himself as ‘a very offensive right-back’, laid on five assists for Juventus last season is confident City’s attacking, possession-based football marries well with his individual game.
“The way the team have been playing in the last few years attracted me the most,” he explained.
“I’m a very offensive right-back, I enjoy going forward. That’s this team’s style. I consider myself a very technical player and I believe I suit this style of play.
“I know that there are great players for each position, and that the competition is also very high.
“In my opinion, the best players excel in this environment. This is what I came here to show.”
Cancelo arrives promising hard work, ambition and dedication to the cause and with the aim of helping City lift the Champions League – the only trophy missing after we swept the board domestically last season.
The Portugal international has a wealth of experience from across Europe, having plied his trade in Spain and Italy since leaving Benfica, something he expects will aid him as he bids to adapt to his new surroundings.
“I’ve learnt something from each one of those places,” he said. “That’s how I live my life.
“This is another challenge I’ll try to rise to. As I said, I’m here to give my best and help the Club.
“I’m excited to start.”
