In an emotional official presentation, FC Barcelona welcomed its new director of football, Deco, who takes over after two and a half successful years under the direction of Mateu Alemany. The club’s president, Joan Laporta, was full of praise for both, highlighting Alemany’s achievements while justifying the choice of Deco as his successor.
Laporta began by thanking Mateu Alemany for his excellent management at the head of the football department, calling it a “very complicated inheritance in the sporting field” and underlining that “he has built a highly competitive sporting project.” He praised Alemany’s intelligence and professionalism and left Barça’s doors open for his future.
However, attention was focused on Deco, whose arrival generated great expectations. Laporta highlighted that Deco meets all the necessary conditions to lead Barcelona’s football area. The former Blaugrana player is an iconic figure who left an indelible mark on the club and who shared a dressing room with the current coach, Xavi Hernández. This connection promises a vision of football that is coherent and aligned with Barcelona’s philosophy.
Successful businessman
But Deco is not only a former elite footballer, he has also demonstrated his skill as a businessman and has acquired essential knowledge in the complex negotiations of the world of football. Laporta emphasized his ability to navigate football markets, both European and emerging, a fundamental requirement for the position.
The president highlighted the relevant role of Deco in the construction of the current sports project, highlighting his work in collaboration with coach Xavi Hernández. His active involvement in resolving cases over the summer is a testament to his commitment to the club.