In the same interview in which he briefly reacted to Real Madrid’s decision to part ways with Xabi Alonso, Barcelona sporting director Deco also used the opportunity to outline Barça’s current si...
In the same interview in which he briefly reacted to Real Madrid’s decision to part ways with Xabi Alonso, Barcelona sporting director Deco also used the opportunity to outline Barça’s current situation and short-term vision.
Speaking to El Larguero, Deco focused on Barcelona’s internal stability, recent decisions, and the figures shaping the squad under Hansi Flick.
Unsurprisingly, a key topic was the future of Flick. Deco was calm and measured, stressing that the coach is settled and enjoying his work in Barcelona.
“All I can say is that Hansi is happy and enjoying his work at Barça. At big clubs, it’s difficult to talk about years.
“He still has one more season on his contract, but what I can say is that I see him as happy and content at Barça. It’s still early days.
“With him, we’ve improved the management of the dressing room,” he began.
Joao Cancelo’s signing
Deco then turned his attention to Joao Cancelo’s arrival, explaining why the deal had finally materialised.
Barcelona are set to sign Joao Cancelo. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
He made it clear that Barcelona have long admired the Portuguese player and now see him as an important addition.
Deco explained, “He is a player who brings more quality and value to the squad.
“We wanted to sign him before, but we couldn’t compete with the offer from Saudi Arabia.
“Now the opportunity has arisen, and we will be able to enjoy a player who can play on both flanks, as well as on the wing and even in midfield.”
The goalkeeping situation
Another issue addressed was Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future, following reports linking him with a possible loan move.
Deco was quick to calm speculation and reaffirm the club’s position. He stated, “It’s true that Girona are interested in a loan deal, but first Girona need to talk to Marc and then he needs to talk to us.
“At the moment, Marc is our player. We’re very happy and he hasn’t asked us for anything.”
He also spoke positively about Joan Garcia, whose role has grown faster than expected.
“We knew he was an option for the present and the future, but with Marc’s injury, everything has been brought forward a little.
“He’s having a spectacular season, he has a calmness and a personality that has fitted in very well in the dressing room.”
On Araujo, Raphinha and Lewandowski
Ronald Araujo’s return was another point of satisfaction for the sporting director. Deco emphasised his importance, saying,
Deco spoke positively about Araujo’s return. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
“We’re very happy with his progress. He’s a very important player for us. He’s a top-level winter signing.”
He reserved special praise for Raphinha, highlighting his leadership and growth under Flick.
Deco said, “He’s the team leader. It’s always tough for a player to join a team as demanding as Barça, but I think his first season with Xavi was good.
“With Hansi Flick, we now see a Raphinha who is very confident, with character and great autonomy on the field.
“He has energy and a spirit like few players I’ve seen. He has the desire to make history and succeed at Barça.”
Finally, Deco addressed Robert Lewandowski’s contract situation with caution and respect.
He concluded, “Robert is enjoying his time at Barça. He’s one of the best strikers in recent years.
“I don’t know what his plans are, but for now, we have to take it step by step and then sit down to talk clearly about what we want to do.
“It’s not the right time yet; we’re still focused on important things. Little by little, the time will come to talk.”
Category: General Sports
