Following Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy, Barcelona sporting director Deco was interviewed by TV3.

What can Rodri bring to the team?

Deco: What I want to say is that we're very happy with every new player. I think all the signings we've made were targeted. Before signing a player, we deliberate carefully, have thorough internal discussions and exchanges, and only make a decision once all the groundwork is complete. Indeed, Rodri wasn't initially in our plans because we didn't expect him to become available on the transfer market beforehand. But when we saw an opportunity to sign him, we acted. We're very clear that he can bring a lot to us. From Gundogan, Adeyemi, Rodri to Cancelo, and the contract extensions we've secured, each operation has clear meaning. Because we want to have a better team each year and continue to improve. I think the team can always improve, and I believe João will significantly strengthen our squad.

Is Rodri's signing considered a first blow against Real Madrid this season?

Deco: No, to be honest, it's not. There's always been competition between the two clubs, but we don't sign players just to take them from our rivals. I think it's a mistake to make transfers for that purpose. At the end of the day, Rodri is one of the best players in the world. A few months ago, we didn't even know this would be possible, and we hadn't considered this option at all beforehand. We're not simply fighting to win the match against Real Madrid, absolutely not. We simply know very well what he can bring to the team, so we decided to sign him. Otherwise, this transfer wouldn't make sense.

Will there be other surprises, given the excellent secrecy we've seen with Rodri's recruitment? Does Barcelona still have much work to do in the coming days?

Deco: We know that two attacking players have departed, such as Ferran Torres and Lewandowski. We know that with the new signings we've brought in, we can fill the void left by Ferran Torres. But Lewandowski's departure is very difficult, after all, it's Lewandowski, and no matter how good a player you bring in, it's always very difficult to replace Lewandowski because he's a player who marked an era here. But I think we have internal solutions. Of course, we'll certainly take additional steps.

How is the recruitment plan for the number 9 progressing?

Deco: That's how it is—ultimately, it's about finding the best solution. I know there are always many rumors out there, and there always will be. We're working hard to see what we can do before the transfer window closes.

Will Barcelona have difficulty registering new players?

Deco: No, I don't think so. One thing we do very well is that Barcelona is always a place where any player wants to come play, wants to enjoy football. But to attract top-level players, you need to have a winning project. I think that's what attracted Gundogan, Adeyemi, Rodri, and Cancelo. I imagine a player really wants to play for Barcelona, wants to experience everything here, but he also wants to win titles, wants to chase dreams, and wants to make history. I think ultimately, that's our success—this team shows outside players that here you can win, here you can enjoy yourself, and you can make history. I think that's what matters most.

Traduit par IA.

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