Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has given fans a lot to cheer about.
In a recent interview, Deco dropped some key insights about the club’s summer transfer business and it’s clear there’s a fresh spark at Camp Nou. One name, in particular, is stealing the spotlight: Dani Olmo.
When asked why Barcelona signed Dani Olmo, Deco didn’t hold back.
“Dani is the midfielder we didn’t have,” he explained. “There was a lot of quality, but Dani was a player we lacked.”
Olmo, known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability, has been tasked with adding the perfect blend of flair and hunger to Barcelona’s midfield.
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For a club that prides itself on blending homegrown talent with experienced footballers, Olmo fits like a glove. Deco even threw in a little praise for Olmo’s drive: “Dani gives us this hunger to win. Barça has always been a mix of home players and hungry footballers.”
In short, Olmo’s arrival seems to be more than just another transfer—it’s part of a bigger plan to make Barca invincible again. He also ticks both of Deco's boxes, having spent seven years in Barcelona's youth categories before beginning his professional career in Croatia with Dinamo Zagreb.
Deco explains Barcelona's summer transfer strategy
Deco didn’t just talk about Olmo. He shared some insights on how Barcelona navigated a tricky transfer window.
It was no shopping spree, but a calculated move to build a squad that could genuinely compete at the top level. "We wanted to keep Raphinha and others,” Deco revealed. “There were offers, but we didn't want to lose anyone important. We had to increase the level, not lower it."
🚨🔵🔴 Barça director Deco: "We didn’t sign Nico Williams as we have Raphinha, Ferran, Ansu, Lamine plus Fermin and Olmo to help there”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 11, 2024
“Dani Olmo gives us more options rather than signing one more winger”. pic.twitter.com/X8XkxvwIBA
Deco also explained why they didn’t sign Nico Williams, despite rumors swirling. “We didn’t need him. We have Raphinha, Ferran, Ansu, Lamine, plus Fermin and Olmo to help.”
Xavi and the future
Deco saved some praise for Xavi. He acknowledged how crucial the departed head coach has been in helping the club transition through a challenging period. "Xavi has given debuts to important players for the club and the future," Deco said.
Barca’s sporting director also shed light on how financial fair play regulations have influenced the club’s decision-making, limiting their transfer activity but ensuring quality over quantity. “Fair play affects everything. It’s a very debatable issue,” Deco remarked, noting that more signings could have happened, but they refused to “lower the level.”
Deco spoke highly of Hansi Flick, highlighting his calm demeanour and work ethic. “He knows what it is like to be in a great club. And this gives us peace of mind," he said.
With Olmo in the mix, Barcelona fans have every reason to believe that the team will be fighting for silverware in style this season.
