Barcelona director talks Julian Alvarez, Flick, Raphinha, Lewandowski, Eric, Gerard Martin | OneFootball

Earlier today, FC Barcelona sporting director Deco took part in a charity match in Castelldefels in support of disadvantaged children.

Following the event, the former Portuguese midfielder spoke to the media briefly, where he addressed several topics, including the Blaugrana’s reported interest in Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez.

“He’s an Atletico player. We won’t talk about players from other teams, because when we do, some people get upset. We have to talk about our own,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

On being asked about the chances of Barcelona repeating a golden era with the current squad and enjoying a period of sustained success, Deco explained:

“Barça has to be prepared to compete every year. We certainly won’t win every year because history shows that, but we can never give up on competing, and the good thing is that this team is proving it can compete against a Real Madrid side that is strengthening its squad.” 

Furthermore, he was even more optimistic now that most injured players have returned.

“Since the beginning of the year, we have almost never had the forwards available; last year, all the forwards were available, but now that we have recovered them, the team is doing better.”

On the importance of Raphinha, Deco, who represented the Brazilian at the time he signed for Barça, said:

“Raphinha is an important player, he inspires the team, he has earned the respect of the people, he has won over the coach, and he is a fundamental player.”

The Barcelona director also did not rule out extending Robert Lewandowski’s contract, which expires at the end of the season, saying:

“If Robert could go back in time… he’s a fantastic player. Last year, he scored the most goals, and this year, even while injured, he’s one of the top scorers. But it’s not the time to talk about this; everything is still open.”

Deco not ruling out Lewandowski renewal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Deco was also full of praise for Eric Garcia, whose renewal until 2031 was announced earlier today, as he said:

“For me, Eric’s renewal is good news. He’s been an example of turning his situation around; he’s young, only 24, he has a lot ahead of him, he contributes a lot in the dressing room, and he never complains about where he plays.”

The Barcelona director also highlighted Gerard Martin’s contribution at centre-back in recent games, but did not completely rule out a January signing in defence.

“This squad has already surprised us; there are players who are improving, like Eric, who now even plays as a defensive midfielder. He’s a complete player.

“Gerard is giving us a lot at centre-back. We’re not focused on that right now because I think we have a well-balanced squad, but we don’t know what might happen.”

Deco also downplayed the attention on Hansi Flick after the Alaves match, wherein an image of the German tactician sitting on the bench looking dejected had gone viral.

“His dream was to be here, Barça is a tough club, he’s a very emotional, very human person, and he likes to have everything under control,” said Deco.

Concluding, the Barcelona director named his favourites for the FIFA World Cup next year, saying:

“Favorites: Portugal, Spain, Brazil is consolidating its position, France, and, oops, sorry, Leo, Argentina too.”