Barcelona sporting director Deco has explained why the Spanish champions decided to sign Anthony Gordon instead of making Marcus Rashford’s loan move permanent during the summer transfer window.
According to the BBC, Barcelona appreciated Rashford’s contribution during his loan spell last season but opted against triggering the £30.3 million (€35m) purchase option for the Manchester United forward.
Rashford scored 14 goals in all competitions as Barcelona won La Liga and the Copa del Rey. However, Deco said Gordon was considered a better match for the style of football manager Hansi Flick wanted to play.
“We are extremely grateful to Rashford,” Deco said.
“He contributed a lot last season, but our idea of play is much more linked to Anthony’s. His style fits with what the coach is looking for.”
Deco explained that Barcelona had identified a lack of energy in the team whenever Raphinha was unavailable and believed Gordon could provide the intensity required on the wing.
“In the case of Gordon, we saw that he was one of the figures we needed,” he said.
“When Raphinha wasn’t on the pitch, the team lost energy and with him we could solve it.”
Gordon eventually joined Barcelona from Newcastle United for more than €80 million (£69.3m), becoming one of the club’s two most expensive summer signings alongside Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
Deco said Barcelona assessed several wingers before deciding on the England international, with Flick making the type of player he wanted clear to the club’s recruitment team.
“We needed more intensity. We analysed a lot of wingers,” Deco said.
“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.”
Gordon has made five appearances for Barcelona since completing his move and has registered four assists. Barcelona have also won all four of their La Liga matches so far, scoring 17 goals and conceding two.
Rashford, meanwhile, returned to Manchester United after Barcelona decided not to make his loan transfer permanent.
Source: BBC
