Deco Explains Why Barcelona Chose Anthony Gordon Over Marcus Rashford
Barcelona have explained why Marcus Rashford’s successful loan season was not followed by a permanent move, with sporting director Deco citing Anthony Gordon’s suitability for Hansi Flick’s plans after the England winger’s fast start at Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s summer decision
- Rashford spent last season on loan in Catalonia from Manchester United, scoring 14 times as Barcelona won La Liga and the Spanish Supercup.
- Although the agreement included a €30m (£26m) purchase clause, Barcelona chose not to activate it and Rashford returned to England.
- The Spanish champions instead committed €70m (£59m) to bring Gordon from Newcastle United, with the 25-year-old considered a better fit for Flick’s preferred approach.
- Gordon joined a substantial intake that also included Rodri, Joao Cancelo, Karim Adeyemi, Gabriel Jesus and goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Deco explains the Gordon preference
Deco said Barcelona remained appreciative of Rashford’s contribution to a trophy-winning campaign, but felt Gordon more closely matched the coach’s requirements.
“We are very grateful to Rashford,” Deco said. “He gave us a great deal last year, but our playing idea is more connected to Anthony. His profile is closer to what the coach wants.”
The sporting director said the club’s analysis had identified a need for greater energy in wide areas, particularly in periods when Raphinha was unavailable. Barcelona assessed a number of wingers before pursuing Gordon, despite the difficulty of recruiting established Premier League players.
“We watch every training session and study the side,” Deco added. “We know what we need. Last season, when Raphinha was absent, we lacked energy. We needed more intensity. Flick knew clearly what he wanted, and we worked from there.”
Bernardo Silva talks did not progress
Barcelona also considered a move for Bernardo Silva, but the former Manchester City captain ultimately joined Clasico rivals Real Madrid.
Deco described Silva as one of the finest players in his role and said the Portugal international had wanted to join Barcelona. However, discussions stalled over more than financial terms, with the player seeking clearer assurances over his role and minutes.
“In the end he was not the player we needed,” Deco said. “I love him and he is among the best in the world in that position. He wanted Barça, but we have our own limits. It was not only about money; it was also about playing time.”
Deco insisted that decisions on selection are Flick’s responsibility. He said Silva’s expectations had been shaped by his regular involvement at Manchester City, while Barcelona could not offer guarantees from the sporting department.
Five assists in five appearances
Gordon has not yet scored for Barcelona, but he has supplied five assists in his first five matches, matching a La Liga record.
Supporters have already embraced the new signing, chanting his name during Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano. Flick will hope Gordon’s early creativity and intensity can continue as the club pursue further domestic honours and European progress this season.
