SPORT. Carlos Monfor and Ferran Correas. Barcelona. 10 FEB 2026 22:00 (updated 10 FEB 2026 22:30).
Sporting director Deco gave an exclusive interview to SPORT to evaluate Barcelona's current squad under Hansi Flick. He said he is pleased with the team's position at the top of LaLiga and with their steady progress across competitions, and he reviewed several players individually.
Regarding Ronald Araujo, Deco pointed out that discussions about players' personal struggles have become more common, and that everyone experiences difficult moments. He stressed that admitting a problem and asking for help is a major step toward recovery, and that many people lack that ability. Deco contrasted this with cases of well-known athletes who could not overcome depression or similar issues and ended up leaving the sport, and he praised Araujo for having the determination to acknowledge he was not well and to seek support. He likened the process to recovering from an injury, noting that the player has grown more confident, returned to training and is again available to the team; more important than football is that he is well as a person.
On Eric Garcia, Deco observed that public opinion about players can change frequently in football, but such reversals are less common at Barça. He described this turnaround as the merit of few and as evidence of mental strength. At 25, Eric still has room to develop; Deco recalled the player's hard work to reach this stage and said now is his chance to make the most of the moment.
Deco praised Gerard Marín's development since his arrival from Barça Atlètic two years ago, calling his progression remarkable. He noted the difficulty of stepping up to Barcelona due to high demands, recalled Gerard's strong season in the B team that earned him promotion, and explained that last season he was used as a full-back while this year he has featured more as a centre-back. Deco highlighted his work rate, team spirit and availability, saying the club needs such versatile, dependable players.
On João Cancelo, Deco explained the recruitment logic: signing a player simply to increase squad numbers did not make sense. The club believed Cancelo genuinely improves the squad and brings tactical options thanks to his versatility. Deco added that internal solutions exist—such as Jules or Gerard being able to play centrally—so the signing was aimed at adding quality and a multifunctional player rather than just another name on the list.
About goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, Deco said that no player wants to be sidelined and that being a keeper is special; it requires experience and development of personal traits. He emphasized that such players contribute significantly to the human side of the team, bringing fun, positivity and smiles, which are key for a good dressing-room dynamic. Deco also noted the player has one year left on his contract, the club is content with him, and discussions about the squad's future will take place later when the time is right.
Overall, Deco expressed full satisfaction with the group: Barcelona lead the league and are moving forward confidently in all competitions, while individual players continue to grow and contribute both on the pitch and within the squad's daily life.
