Deco talks Flick, Lewandowski, Champions League chances, Man City, summer transfer plans

FC Barcelona sporting director Deco spoke to Catalunya Radio earlier today in an extensive interview, during which he discussed several topics, including the future of star winger Lamine Yamal as well as the recent contract renewal of Ronald Araujo.

The winter transfer window saw Barça close some key renewals including that of Araujo, Gavi, and Pedri, with the focus now shifting on securing the future of some other players as well as manager Hansi Flick.

The German tactician has done a sterling job in his debut season at the club and as such there has already been chatter about a new contract for him, with his current one expiring in 2026.

Addressing the matter, Deco provided a level-headed response, saying: “I understand that there is euphoria with the results. But we need to try to be more reasonable.

“If everything remains the same, and we are happy with him and he is happy, we will move forward to ensure he stays for many years.”

Another renewal that is on the agenda for Barcelona is that of Robert Lewandowski, whose continuity until 2026 seems to be secured.

However, Deco did not give much away on the matter but only stressed that the 36-year-old Pole was a very important player for the team.

“He is so important to us that he can only stay here if he is happy. Perhaps tomorrow something will happen and he will change his mind. You would need to ask him about that,” the Barcelona director noted.

“He is comfortable here, his family is happy, and he has plans here. He is one of the best professionals I have seen, and one of the best forwards.”

Deco also reacted to Manchester City’s heavy spending in the recent winter window, where they splashed over €200 million on new players.

The Barcelona transfer chief’s priority has been to build a solid long-term project and he suggests that there will be no big spending in the summer.

“We are less concerned about signings now than we were before,” he admitted.

Continuing, he added: “Manchester City spent over €200 million in January. We cannot afford that, at the moment. But we also do not need to bring in 3-4 players. They need a renewal. We have already done that.

“We signed players three years ago, and the young players have consolidated.”

When asked whether Barcelona, after an almost perfect league-phase campaign, can be considered favourites to win the Champions League, Deco replied:

“I do not think so. To be considered favourites, you need to be in the quarter-finals and semi-finals for a few years. That has not been the case.

“This season, we need to take a step forward to improve. As much excitement as there is and as well as we are playing, Barcelona is not the favourite.”