Deco breaks down Barcelona defensive issues and recent improvements: ‘We have made right decisions’ | OneFootball

Barcelona sporting director Deco has offered a rare and detailed insight into the club’s current direction, shedding light on tactical decisions, defensive concerns, and the long-term project under Joan Laporta.

Speaking in an in-depth interview with Globoesporte (h/t SPORT), the former midfielder addressed one of the most discussed topics around Barcelona this season – the team’s defensive record in Europe.

Barcelona have conceded in every Champions League match this campaign, raising questions about their defensive solidity. 

However, Deco was quick to shift the focus away from individuals and towards the team’s overall structure.

“The defensive problem isn’t down to a single player, but to the team’s philosophy. Our manager has an aggressive, high-pressing game plan. 

“When the intensity and ability to press, to play aggressively, drops, you can’t be as effective. 

“This ends up affecting the spaces behind the defence, but the team has improved a great deal in that regard,” he began saying.

Progress despite difficult period

Deco also highlighted the strong mentality shown by the squad during a challenging phase of the season. 

Rather than focusing solely on results, he emphasised the growth of the team and the club’s direction under Laporta.

“These last two months have been difficult, but we have managed to keep the team afloat. 

“Laporta won; he has another five years in office to consolidate the project underway.

Deco shared his analysis of Barcelona’s defensive issues. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“The team has established itself as a competitive side. Winning is a consequence of that. 

“Today we have managed to rebuild a team capable of fighting for the title against a strong Real Madrid, against a strong Atletico, against European clubs that have been signing players and spending more than us in recent years.”

Future at Barcelona still open

Deco’s own future was also touched upon during the interview. 

While his current contract runs until June, he hinted at the possibility of continuing alongside Laporta’s new mandate, though without making firm guarantees.

“We’re happy in Barcelona at the moment; we’ll probably have five years left in the job. 

“I don’t know if I’ll stay for the full five years because I need to do a good job every year to keep things running smoothly,” he said.

Strong bond with Flick

A key factor behind Barcelona’s current trajectory is the strong relationship between Deco and Flick. 

Their alignment at both strategic and tactical levels has helped reinforce the club’s identity.

Highlighting the importance of squad building and youth development, Deco added,

“We are also fortunate to have young players who have come into their own, to have made the right decisions regarding signings, and to have a team that can compete. 

“And I believe that is exactly what we are doing,” he concluded.