Unsurprisingly, the Barcelona loanee has found room in his selection for a couple of Portugal international team-mates. He has also sided with colleagues from his time at Manchester City, with there plenty of talent to choose from when it comes to those he has worked alongside.

However, Cancelo has not been able to integrate Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, into his team. Rather, the adaptable defender, who is presently enjoying a loan spell in Catalunya, has chosen the mysterious skills of former Brazil international and Blaugrana great Ronaldinho.

Explaining that selection to FIFPRO, Cancelo has said: “He is, as you already know, I have said it several times before, he is my favourite player ever – the player who made me like football.” The 29-year-old added on choosing Ronaldo ahead of Messi: “Cristiano for being a legend of my country, for all the goals he has scored and for continuing to inspire the youngsters.”

Joao Cancelo’s ULTIMATE 5-a-side 🤩 pic.twitter.com/wQSmomEQZe

— FIFPRO (@FIFPRO) April 24, 2024

Cancelo’s ideal squad is completed by Manchester City players Ederson, Ruben Dias, and Bernardo Silva, whose work ethic, defensive prowess, and creative instincts are acknowledged. Cancelo is expecting to play in the same lineup as Ronaldo, Silva, and Dias at the European Championship in Germany this summer.