When asked about Barcelona’s future coach, Deco dropped a few hints.
Barcelona are preparing for a major change this summer.
Xavi will be stepping down as coach. This news has left the Blaugrana desperate to find a replacement. Over the past few days, a number of names have been linked in one way or another to the Camp Nou. Last night, Deco was questioned at length on the subject in an interview with Esport3, whose best statements can be read this morning in the main Iberian media, including AS. After giving Xavi’s work a 10, the sporting director defended the Spanish coach.
“Not everything he’s done over the years has been appreciated. It seems that winning last year’s La Liga wasn’t that difficult. I found some very harsh criticism.” Regarding his successor, Deco confided: “Our reality is what it is. We won’t be able to make any big signings and he’ll have to adapt to the circumstances (…) We haven’t spoken to anyone yet. It will be a decision agreed with the chairman. Despite this, several names have been drawn from the hat, including José Mourinho, who has been free since the end of his adventure at AS Roma.
Deco puts an end to the Marquez lead
“He’s a friend, but I haven’t spoken to him for a while,” confessed Deco. As for Pep Guardiola, also linked with the Culés, he made no secret of his admiration. “He’s a great coach. Maybe the best in history.” He then sidestepped the subject of Thiago Motta. “I haven’t seen many Bologna games. Yes, he’s doing a good job, but I haven’t spoken to him in many years.” Finally, he was asked about Rafa Marquez, whom many would like to see on the first-team bench.
“He’s doing his job and growing as a coach in the reserve team. He’s not envisaged as the coach of the future.” Deco has therefore put an end to this line of thought. Finally, on the subject of the profile sought, he said: “The same as the one we have now. He has to adapt to the style of the club, to the youngsters, to the players in the squad, because there won’t be any big recruits, and he has to be aware of what Barça can do today. He has to come knowing the reality, what we can do and where we’re going.” Candidates for the position have been warned!
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