Deco's "Barcelona" statement: Cancelo, Raphinha, ter Stegen and future plans

Barcelona's sporting director Deco has made extensive statements regarding the team's situation, transfer plans, and the future of several key players.

Idman.Biz reports that the Portuguese official spoke about the situation of Joao Cancelo, Raphinha's development, Marc-Andre ter Stegen's status, and winter plans.

Deco stated that Joao Cancelo may not be fully ready for the next game, as he has not played for a long time and needs to regain his physical form. According to him, Cancelo's joining the team was the only possible option that would significantly raise the level of the defense, and it would be pointless to make a transfer in January that would not strengthen the squad.

He noted that although the club wanted Cancelo from the beginning of the season, financial fair play rules did not allow it. Now, his return will significantly strengthen the defense. After Cancelo's arrival, there will be no need for Eric Garcia to play as a wing-back.

Deco added that the club wanted to transfer Cancelo on a permanent basis, but it was impossible to compete with the offer from Saudi Arabia.

The sports director also touched upon Raphinha's development. According to him, the Brazilian footballer has already become a leader and has begun to take on more individual responsibility, especially after the arrival of Hansi Flick.

Regarding ter Stegen, Deco confirmed that Girona was interested, but said they had to talk to the club first. He emphasized that the German goalkeeper has a contract with the club and that he is a high-level goalkeeper.

Stating that Joan Garcia's transfer was made purely for sports reasons, Deco said that he is young and the club needs a reliable goalkeeper for both today and the future. He added that ter Stegen's injuries also influenced this decision and expressed his satisfaction with Joan Garcia's rapid adaptation.

Finally, Deco noted that Robert Lewandowski's staying in the team would depend on his personal motivation, and the club does not yet know his future plans. He also said that they consider Ronald Araujo's regaining form to be one of the most important "transfers" of the winter and emphasized that he is a key player in the team in his best condition.