Recent reports in the Spanish media have suggested that Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, is contemplating leaving the club following a challenging summer transfer window. The Catalan club faced difficulties in signing a left winger, a holding midfielder, and a defender due to their ongoing financial issues. However, Barcelona has swiftly responded to these rumors, categorically denying the claims made by Spanish sports newspaper Diario Sport.
Barcelona released a statement refuting the news of Deco considering his future at the club. The statement emphasized that they are extremely pleased with the work that Deco has been doing as the sporting director. Despite the challenges faced during the transfer window, Barcelona made it clear that they fully support Deco and value his contributions to the club.
Deco, a former Portugal international, transitioned from his role as an agent to become Barcelona’s sporting director last year. Initially working alongside Mateu Alemany, Deco took over as the sole sporting director when Alemany left the club in September. However, Deco has encountered obstacles in his position due to Barcelona’s financial constraints, which have limited the club’s transfer activities.
Barcelona, like all clubs in Spain, operate under an annual spending limit determined by various financial factors. Despite exceeding their spending cap, Barcelona’s financial struggles have restricted their ability to make significant signings during the transfer window. The club’s budget limitations have impacted their pursuit of key targets, resulting in missed opportunities to strengthen the squad.
Despite the financial challenges, Barcelona managed to secure the signings of Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig and Pau Victor from Girona. However, the club had hoped to bring in additional players to bolster the team. Missed opportunities included failed attempts to sign players like Federico Chiesa and João Cancelo, who opted for moves to other clubs instead.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta is scheduled to address the media in a news conference to discuss the club’s transfer activities and future plans. The press conference will provide insight into Barcelona’s strategy moving forward, particularly in light of the financial constraints that have impacted the club’s recruitment efforts.
While rumors of Deco’s potential departure from Barcelona circulated in the media, the club swiftly responded to dismiss these claims. Deco’s role as sporting director has been crucial to Barcelona, despite the challenges posed by financial restrictions. The club continues to navigate its financial struggles while striving to strengthen the squad and maintain competitiveness in various competitions.