Deco talks Lewandowski, Ferran, Haaland, Ter Stegen, relationship with Flick – ‘You can play without a ‘9’ | OneFootball

Barcelona sporting director Deco has spoken openly about the club’s current position when it comes to signing a new number nine next summer.

With Robert Lewandowski’s contract due to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, the feeling within the club is that the veteran striker may not continue beyond that point.

At present, Hansi Flick has two options up front, namely, Lewandowski, now 37, and Ferran Torres, 25, who has successfully transitioned from the wing into a central striking role.

The two have shared minutes across Barcelona’s opening 10 games this season, giving Flick some flexibility in attack.

No rush regarding Lewandowski

Still, talk has been growing about the club’s long-term plans, with names like Erling Haaland often linked to the Catalan giants.

However, Deco was quick to calm speculation during his recent appearance on Catalunya Radio’s Tot Costa programme.

“We’re not going to talk about renewals in October. We’re taking it step by step. He’s one of the best strikers of recent years, a top-level player. He’s helped us a lot.

“He’s scored more than 40 goals, but we will analyse it. It’s time to talk about getting injured players back,” he stated.

Not a priority at the moment

Lewandowski’s contract ends in 2026. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Deco made it clear that Barcelona’s focus should remain on stability and internal development rather than chasing big-money signings.

“You shouldn’t get obsessed with a ‘9’, you might be wrong,” he explained. “Maybe you can play without a ‘9’. It’s not the time to talk about signings. Ferran can play as a ‘9’.

“PSG, the European champions, won the Champions League without a striker. Talking about a ‘9’ is a bit of a mistake, even though there are good players.”

He also highlighted the club’s financial situation and the importance of building from within.

“We wanted a team that didn’t need to go to the market so much. When we renew, we also sign players.

“We have been able to avoid selling any important players,” Deco said, stressing the club’s long-term vision.

Naming young stars such as Fermin Lopez, Pedri, and Gavi, he added, “Many clubs would like to have these players.

“We have a championship team, a top-level team, that we need to improve. It’s better to go to the market, more calmly.”

Ter Stegen’s situation

Deco explained his relationship with Flick. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

When asked about the goalkeeper situation, Deco clarified that Marc-André ter Stegen would have remained the first-choice if not for injury.

“I’m not the coach. He would decide it. When he injured his back, the alarm bells went off because we only had Iñaki ready.

“And when he got injured again, we had to desperately look for Szczesny. He helps us, but we started looking for goalkeepers and brought in Joan Garcia,” he explained.

Lastly, the sporting director also opened up on his relationship with Hansi Flick, stating, “Everyone has their own way of working. We can always help each other.

“It would be a shame if I couldn’t talk to Flick about football or tactics; we’re together all day long. But I don’t go into any areas outside my own area,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo