Former Barcelona sporting director reflects on his tenure at Barça – “There were stressful nights” | OneFootball

Barcelona have never been strangers to turmoil, but the 2021–2023 period was one of the most fragile and defining chapters in the club’s modern history. Amid the financial chaos, tactical overhauls and emotional exits.

Jordi Cruyff served as Barcelona’s sporting director. Now, a year after stepping away, he’s opened up in an interview with Diario SPORT about the behind-the-scenes reality of rebuilding a broken giant.

Cryuff on rebuilding Barça and key exits

For Cruyff, the mission was always clear: Modernise the club while respecting its soul. “The challenge was to evolve without losing Barça’s essence: attacking football, La Masia, and smart signings.”

He admitted the club had no financial muscle and had to adapt their recruitment model. “Without fair play, you look for players who are affordable and ready. Premier League loans helped because they bring rhythm and personality.”

Cruyff played a key role in shaping the team that won La Liga under Xavi. He underlined how the team had to shift gears after Messi’s exit.

“Before, you gave Leo the ball. Without him, transitions hurt us more. The game got more physical and vertical.”

The exits forced Barcelona to target new profiles. “That’s why we brought in Raphinha, Christensen, Kounde, and Kessie. They were ready to compete instantly.”

Letting go of legends was one of the toughest parts. “It was hard talking to legends who had won everything. But they were elegant and generous. People don’t know the financial sacrifices they made.”

Lionel Messi’s exit was a huge sentimental blow for Barcelona (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

One of the most emotional goodbyes was Aubameyang. “He brought goals, joy, and connected with the fans. That goodbye hurt.”

Cruyff on Xabi, Yamal and Cubarsi

Cruyff also touched on some strategic decisions, including the timing of Xavi’s appointment. “We needed someone with conviction. Xavi had it. He didn’t hesitate.”

He praised the coach for his belief in youth. “We didn’t expect a league title so soon. But the team played like veterans.”

The youth generation, Cruyff believes, holds the key to the club’s future. “What Cubarsí does at 17. It’s outrageous.”

He added, “Yamal has magic, and Fermin grew rapidly. That generation gives you goosebumps. “You don’t buy talent like this. You raise it.”

Not every decision went to plan, and Cruyff acknowledges that. “Not everything is a success. You plan well, but football has its own logic.”

Still, he is confident that the work done was for the club’s long-term benefit. “We always tried to do what was best for Barça, even if it wasn’t popular.”

Among the quiet but important signings, Inigo Martínez stood out. “In the locker room, he lifts you when you’re down and grounds you when your head’s too high. That’s leadership.”

On Lewandowski, he said: “He made life easier. It was his dream to play for Barça, and he gave us goals and example.”

Jordi Cruyff hails Lewandowski’s impact (Photo by Rafal Oleksiewicz/Getty Images)

Cruyff also spoke candidly about leaving Barcelona after winning the league. “When the title was won, I told myself: ‘That’s it, I’m happy.’ My dream was to help Barça during a transition.”

Cruyff also reflected on the transition of sporting duties, as he stepped away and Deco took full charge.

“I was happy with Deco coming in. He has experience, connections, and sees football clearly.” He insisted that his own departure was not sudden or forced. “It was the plan. We won the league, and I felt I had done my part.”

The job wasn’t without its toll. “There were stressful nights, last-minute calls, doubts. But when you win the league and see the team grow, it’s all worth it.”

As Barcelona begins a new chapter under Hansi Flick, Jordi Cruyff’s influence was key and serves as the DNA of the squad as it looks to now conquer Europe heading into the new season.