Spain Born in
A Coruña,
Galicia, Cancela played several years for
Deportivo de La Coruña, but only appeared officially for
the reserves where he spent five seasons, four in the
Tercera División. He was also loaned to amateurs Malpica SDC during his contract. After leaving the
Estadio Riazor in 2006, Cancela moved to the
Segunda División B, competing two seasons apiece with
CF Fuenlabrada and
CD Lugo.
Hong Kong Cancela signed for
Kitchee SC in Hong Kong on 26 July 2010, alongside compatriots
Fernando Recio and
Jordi Tarrés. On 28 January of the following year, he renewed his contract for another two years. On 19 August 2022, after a match against
BG Pathum United F.C. in the
round of 16 of the
AFC Champions League, Cancela announced his retirement at the age of 40. He made 250 competitive appearances during his spell at the
Mong Kok Stadium, winning several honours including eight
Premier Leagues. ==International career==