Barcelona splashed out on Anthony Gordon in the summer transfer window and decided against signing Marcus Rashford permanently despite a strong season on loan from Manchester United.
The decision looks to be a good one, with Gordon having made an impressive start to life at the Camp Nou under Hansi Flick.
Deco has now been asked about the two players and explained why Barca preferred Gordon to Rashford.
“We see every training session and analyse the team,” he told RAC1.
“We have a clear idea what we’re
looking for. One of the areas we struggled last season, without Raphinha, was that the team’s energy dropped. It was lost.
“We needed more intensity. We analysed a lot of wingers. Signing someone from the Premier League is almost impossible, but [Flick] was clear with what he wanted and we worked on a deal from there.”
Deco did have some kind words for Rashford but added that Gordon is a better fit than the Manchester United man.
“We are extremely grateful to Rashford,” he added. “He contributed a lot last season, but our idea of play is much more linked to Anthony. His style fits with what the coach [Hansi Flick] is looking for.”
Gordon has four assists in four La Liga games for Barcelona so far and has been a bit hit with fans since his summer transfer from Newcastle.
