'There are things we didn't agree on' - Joao Cancelo opens up on relationship with Pep Guardiola and confirms desire to stay at Barcelona 'for two or three' more years

In an exclusive interview with Portuguese network RTP, the Portuguese full-back revealed the reason behind his freezing out at Manchester City while also touching up on what he wishes for his upcoming future. Currently, on loan at Barcelona from the treble-winners, the 29-year-old also revealed that he hopes to stay at the Catalan side beyond the end of his current loan deal.

When asked about his relationship with Guardiola, Cancelo said [via Relevo]: "There are things we didn't agree on, we're not obligated to agree on everything. I had things I didn't agree on or he didn't agree with something I said, it was just that. But I don't have resentment, I am very grateful. Life goes on, I am very, very happy here."

On his future at Barcelona, he added: "At the moment they haven't told me anything, but I hope I can stay. I'm doing everything to make that happen. I really want to play for Benfica, really, but I want to play two or three more years here.

"Although we have financial problems, I am delighted to be here. After Benfica, it is the club that I always liked. Pepe told me many times that he was a player for Real Madrid, but I told him that it was for Barcelona. The truth is that I am where I always wanted to be."

Cancelo has had a very good season with Xavi Hernandez's side but the club's struggles early in the campaign mean lie eight points off leaders Real Madrid in table. However, they have one hope in their sights, the Champions League and Cancelo will be a pivotal player for Xavi's side if they want to challenge for their first European trophy since 2015.

With the international break in full effect, Cancelo will leave the city of Barcelona to prepare for Portugal's friendly clashes. The full-back has been given permission to miss their first clash against Sweden but will return to the squad for the Slovenia friendly on March 26.