Deco Opens Up on Rodri, Raphinha, Cancelo, Gabriel Jesus and Mourinho

Barcelona sporting director Deco has provided an insight into the club's transfer strategy, discussing Rodri's arrival, João Cancelo's permanent return, Raphinha's new position and the decision to sign Gabriel Jesus.

Speaking at the Portugal Football Summit, the former Barcelona and Portugal midfielder also discussed Robert Lewandowski's departure, Real Madrid's appointment of José Mourinho and the ongoing debate surrounding refereeing in Spanish football.

Deco Explains Why Rodri Chose Barcelona

Rodri was Barcelona's headline signing during the summer, with the Catalan club beating competition from Real Madrid to secure the Spain international.

According to Deco, Barcelona's ability to attract elite players has improved because of the football being produced under Hansi Flick.

“First of all, I think we've recovered that desire among players to come to Barcelona. That's very important for us.”

Deco believes players are increasingly attracted by Barcelona's style and the possibility of competing for major trophies.

Regarding Rodri specifically, he explained that the midfielder had been central to Manchester City's project but ultimately wanted a new challenge.

“In Rodri's case, it was different because he was everything at City. They helped Rodri leave because it was his wish.”

Cancelo Returns on a Permanent Deal

Deco also praised João Cancelo following Barcelona's decision to bring the Portuguese full-back back permanently.

The director believes Cancelo's technical ability makes him particularly suited to Barcelona's footballing philosophy.

“João has the quality to play in any position. He is one of the best full-backs in the world, technically, he is one of the most brilliant of recent years.”

Deco added that Barcelona is an ideal environment for a player with Cancelo's technical qualities.

“Barcelona is a perfect fit for what he is. At heart, Barcelona is about technical quality.”

Barcelona Discovered a New Raphinha

One of the biggest tactical developments this season has been Raphinha's transition into a central attacking role.

Barcelona initially wanted to sign a new striker, with Julián Álvarez reportedly identified as a major target. After that move failed to materialise, the club explored alternative solutions.

Raphinha was subsequently moved into a No. 9 role, while Gabriel Jesus arrived as another attacking option.

Deco revealed that the possibility of using Raphinha centrally had already been discussed with Flick.

“Last season we discussed this with Hansi; one of his ideas was to try and field a number nine.”

The change has worked remarkably well, with Raphinha adapting to responsibilities that are very different from those he had as a winger.

“We're happy because we've discovered a new side of Raphinha. But the most important thing is that he's happy too.”

Deco explained that playing centrally requires Raphinha to think differently because he does not receive the ball as frequently as he would on the wing.

“He has to be ready to attack behind the defenders.”

Even Barcelona did not expect the Brazilian to adapt so quickly.

“We didn't expect him to perform so well—or at least not at this level—but his quality is exceptional, enormous; that's why I think he can play there.”

Why Barcelona Signed Gabriel Jesus

Deco also clarified the circumstances behind Gabriel Jesus' arrival.

The sporting director insisted that the Brazilian was not initially part of Barcelona's transfer plans. His signing only became a realistic option once it became clear that Álvarez would not be available.

“Gabriel Jesus wasn't in our plans, as we didn't know his situation because there was a lot of talk about him renewing.”

Once Barcelona moved on from Álvarez, the club began exploring alternatives and identified Jesus as a suitable solution.

“The moment we decided that Julian was impossible, we started looking for solutions, and Gabriel was perfect for us.”

Deco believes the move could also give Jesus a fresh start after limited playing opportunities at Arsenal.

“Sometimes, when you make a change, you get new motivation, a new club, new teammates.”

Deco Reflects on Lewandowski's Departure

The Barcelona director also explained why the club decided it was time to move on from Robert Lewandowski.

He praised the Polish striker's contribution but suggested that both player and club were ready for a change.

“Robert gave everything for Barça, we won titles, but it was time for a change, and he needed that too.”

Deco explained that Barcelona's original plan was to find a more mobile No. 9 capable of connecting with teammates, which was one of the reasons Álvarez was targeted.

Deco Welcomes Mourinho to La Liga

Deco also addressed José Mourinho's arrival at Real Madrid.

Despite Mourinho now being in charge of Barcelona's biggest domestic rival, Deco welcomed his return to Spanish football and praised his achievements.

“I think he's one of the best coaches in history.”

Deco acknowledged that having Mourinho at Madrid creates an additional challenge for Barcelona but said he was pleased to see his fellow Portuguese back in La Liga.

Barcelona Will Focus on Their Own Affairs

The subject of refereeing also came up, particularly following Real Madrid's complaints after their defeat to Atlético Madrid.

Deco insisted Barcelona would not become distracted by controversies surrounding their rivals.

“It doesn't worry us. I think we have to look at ourselves.”

The sporting director acknowledged that controversial refereeing decisions have always been part of football and that VAR has not eliminated every disputed incident.

“In short, controversial refereeing decisions will continue to exist; it's a historical thing in Spain, in Italy, and everywhere.”

Deco concluded by emphasizing that Barcelona's priority is to improve their own performances rather than become involved in debates surrounding other clubs.

“We at Barcelona look at ourselves. We're always going to do what’s within our reach, try to improve every day.”