Barcelona sporting director Deco says Anthony Gordon’s type was a greater match for Hansi Flick’s facet than Marcus Rashford’s because the membership strengthened their squad this summer time.
Rashford scored 14 targets in all competitions whereas on mortgage at Barcelona final season, who received La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona had the choice of signing the Manchester United ahead on a everlasting foundation this summer time for £30.3m (35m euros) on the finish of his 12-month mortgage.
Nevertheless, the Spanish giants determined to not prolong the 28-year-old’s contract and he returned to Previous Trafford.
Rashford’s England team-mate Gordon and Manchester Metropolis midfielder Rodri have been Barcelona’s two most costly signings throughout the summer time switch window, and Deco says each arrivals addressed vital weaknesses within the squad.
Gordon joined the Catalan membership from Newcastle United in a deal value greater than 80m euros (£69.3m), saying he had believed he would play for Barcelona since he was “three years of age”.
Chatting with Catalan radio station RAC1 on Thursday, Deco praised Rashford for his contribution final season however defined why Barcelona finally most well-liked Gordon.
“We’re extraordinarily grateful to Rashford,” Deco mentioned.
“He contributed quite a bit final season, however our thought of play is far more linked to Anthony’s. His type matches with what the coach is in search of.”
Deco mentioned Barcelona had recognized an absence of power when Raphinha was unavailable final season and believed Gordon might deal with the issue.
“Within the case of Gordon, we noticed that he was one of many figures we wanted,” he mentioned.
“When Raphinha wasn’t on the pitch, the staff misplaced power and with him we might resolve it. The massive benefit we had is that the participant wished to come back and he was capable of placed on stress [at Newcastle to be allowed to leave].”
Deco added that Barcelona had analysed quite a few wingers earlier than deciding on Gordon.
“We had a transparent thought what we’re in search of,” he mentioned.
“We would have liked extra depth. We analysed plenty of wingers. Signing somebody from the Premier League is nearly inconceivable, however [Flick] was clear with what he wished and we labored on a deal from there.”
Gordon has made 5 appearances for Barcelona and has made 4 assists.
The membership have received all 4 of their La Liga video games, scoring 17 targets and conceding simply two.
