By Adegboyega Adeleye
Barcelona sporting director Deco has explained why the Spanish champions preferred Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford as they strengthened their attack this summer.
According to the BBC, Barcelona were grateful for Rashford’s contribution during his loan spell last season but decided against activating their £30.3 million (€35m) option to sign the Manchester United forward permanently.
Rashford scored 14 goals in all competitions as Barcelona won La Liga and the Copa del Rey, but Deco said Gordon’s style was considered a better fit for Hansi Flick’s team.
“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 said Barcelona had identified a lack of energy whenever Raphinha was unavailable and believed Gordon could solve that problem.
“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 joined Barcelona from Newcastle United for more than €80 million (£69.3m), becoming one of the club’s two most expensive signings of the summer alongside Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
Deco said Barcelona had considered several wingers before settling on the England international, with Flick making the desired profile clear.
“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 his move and has provided four assists, while the club have won all four of their La Liga matches, scoring 17 goals and conceding two.
Rashford, meanwhile, returned to Manchester United after Barcelona opted not to make his loan move permanent.
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