Cancelo becomes first player to secure titles in four of Europe’s top leagues
The 31-year-old Portuguese international, currently on loan from Al-Hilal, attributes his success to a lifelong passion for the sport and a rigorous work ethic.
João Cancelo has cemented his place in football history by becoming the first player to win domestic league titles in four of Europe’s five major competitions. The achievement follows Barcelona’s recent victory in La Liga, adding the Spanish championship to a resume that already includes triumphs in the German Bundesliga, the English Premier League, and the Italian Serie A.
The 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder secured the La Liga title while on loan at Barcelona from the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. His previous league successes include the German championship with Bayern Munich in 2023, two English Premier League titles with Manchester City in 2021 and 2022, and the Italian title with Juventus in 2019. This milestone marks a significant shift in the landscape of European football, as no player had previously achieved this specific combination of domestic honours.
Speaking after wrapping up the La Liga title, Cancelo attributed his career trajectory to a consistent application of effort and a deep-rooted love for the game. “...because I know how I work. This sport has been my passion since childhood, and God brings everything and everyone to where it or they belong,” he said. His comments reflect a pragmatic view of his success, focusing on personal discipline rather than the novelty of the record itself.
With the La Liga crown secured, Cancelo remains one league title away from completing the set of Europe’s top five competitions. France’s Ligue 1 stands as the only major European league he has yet to win. While the prospect of adding a French title to his collection remains a possibility, current reports suggest his immediate focus is on his tenure in Spain.
There are indications that Cancelo may extend his stay at Barcelona beyond his current loan spell. Although no contract details have been confirmed, the sentiment from the player suggests a desire to continue his work in the Spanish capital. For now, however, the historic nature of his four-title achievement remains the defining narrative of his career.
