Deco officially named Barcelona’s Sports Director
Deco has been working with Barcelona for some time, but his position today became official with the announcement that he will take on the role of Sports Director with full powers, a month and a half after Jordi Cruyff’s contract expired.
What this means is that the current football director Mateu Alemany will leave the club in September after the transfer window closes.
Alemany has been a good servant to the club having joined with Joan Laporto, and has helped guide Barca through some troubled waters financially.
He won’t immediately take on a new role after having negotiated with Aston Villa back in May, but I’m sure it’s not too long until we see Mateu in charge elsewhere.
Deco has now signed a deal which will see him stay with the club up until the next presidential elections set to be held in 2026.
The unofficial now becomes official with Deco signing as Sports Director
Although it’s only now being confirmed. Deco has been working within the current set-up since June, and his work will largely continue in the same vein with an extra decision-making element.
Deco and Xavi shared a dressing room at Barcelona and although they don’t agree on everything, like who Barcelona should sign as a right back, they are believed to have a good working relationship.
He also has a pre-existing relationship with Rafa Márquez of Barca B and he’s already held a meeting with Juliano Belletti who joined Juvenil A as assistant coach with Óscar López managing.
Deco has been working as a special advisor to the South American market and has played a pivotal role in the signing of Raphinha last year and Vitor Roque this year. It’s believed that with his understanding of the Brazilian market in particular, Barca will be able to continue their proud tradition of bringing through some of South America’s most talented players.
