FC Barcelona sporting director Deco reviewed the club 2024–25 season in an interview with BBC Sport, where he not only celebrated the team’s recent success but also issued a clear warning to Real Madrid and discussed the Blaugrana short term plans.

Barça capped off a remarkable season by winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup, narrowly missing out on a place in the Champions League final. Deco praised the squad’s performance and made it clear that a major summer overhaul is not expected.

“Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford are great players, but they’re under contract with their clubs. It wouldn’t be right to speak about them,” he said. “We don’t need many reinforcements. If we go into the market, we’ll find the right names, but the core of the team is already in place.”

“Everyone wants to come to Barça”

Deco also emphasized that Barça remains a highly attractive destination for top players. The club on field resurgence and strong football identity continue to resonate with the football world.

“When I speak to agents, everyone wants to come or stay. That says a lot about where the club is right now. Barcelona remains a global benchmark, and our style of play makes players want to join us.”

Real Madrid won’t stay quiet

Despite Barça winning all four Clásicos this season, Deco acknowledged that Real Madrid will return stronger next campaign.

“Madrid has many top-level players. I’m sure they’ll come back better. A strong Madrid is good for La Liga. We also need to keep our best players. It’s important for Barça, Madrid, and Atlético to be at their best.”

Lamine Yamal and the Messi comparisons

Lamine Yamal, one of the biggest revelations in world football, recently extended his contract with Barça until 2031. Deco celebrated the renewal but urged caution with comparisons to Lionel Messi.

“Lamine is Lamine, and Leo is Leo. Messi was the greatest player in this club history for me, the best of all time. Lamine is special, you’d pay to watch him play. He wants to be here and believes in the project. But let’s remember he only 17 years old.”

Committed to Laporta and the Barça model

Appointed as sporting director by Joan Laporta in 2023, Deco reaffirmed his dedication to the club institutional and sporting project. He also defended Barça financial strategy amid the challenges posed by Spain strict financial fair play regulations.

“This is my club. I always believed I could help from the inside. The financial rules here are stricter than in the Premier League, but we’re working with what we have. The blend of La Masia talent and experienced players has been crucial in bringing Barça back to the elite.”