Three years of Deco at Barcelona: 2026 has finally changed the conversation

Three years have passed since Deco took up the role of Barcelona's sporting director, and the club's conversation surrounding his impact has begun to shift in a positive direction. While his tenure has not been without controversy, there are now signs that 2026 may mark a turning point for Deco and the team.

Initially, Deco's appointment faced skepticism due to the club's financial struggles and the high-profile signing of Vitor Roque. However, his decision to bring in Hansi Flick in 2024 has proven to be instrumental. Flick, despite past criticism, has revitalized the team, restoring competitiveness and fostering a coexistence between La Masia and major signings. This decision has garnered significant credit for Deco, solidifying his efforts during his time with Barcelona.

In recent months, Barcelona has demonstrated a newfound decisiveness in their squad-building strategy. The signings of Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, and Jesse Bisiwu have addressed various areas of the team, and the club is pushing towards the significant acquisition of Rodri. This proactive approach in transfers is a stark contrast to the club's history of selling players for low fees, as evidenced by Ferran Torres' €50 million sale.

Deco's ability to manage the club's financial resources more effectively has also come into focus. The club's strategic sales, including Ansu Fati's €11 million transfer, have created crucial salary space while maximizing returns on investments. These developments signal a more organized and sustainable method of squad building, allowing the club to reinvest in promising players and maintain competitiveness.

While there are still outstanding questions, such as the need for a new striker and the future of several young talents, Deco's three-year journey at Barcelona appears to be evolving. The club is moving from a period of reactive and financially constrained decisions to one where the sporting strategy drives financial decisions. Three years into his role, Deco's work has been ongoing, but the narrative of his redemption arc now seems attainable, promising an exciting future for Barcelona.