Deco explains why Barcelona wanted Anthony Gordon more than Marcus Rashford

Barcelona made a surprise move in the summer by signing Anthony Gordon and turning down the chance to keep Marcus Rashford, with sporting director Deco explaining why.

Rashford was on loan at Barca from Manchester United last season and played a significant role for them, making 49 appearances in all competitions and scoring 14 goals as they won La Liga.

The Spanish giants could have made the temporary move permanent for just £26m at the end of last season but decided not to.

Instead, they signed Gordon from Newcastle United for around £69 million and Rashford returned to Manchester United.

It was something of a surprise move from Barcelona, ​​but Deco offered an explanation for why they wanted one England winger rather than another.

The former Portugal star made it clear that Gordon brings more intensity and energy, which is exactly what coach Hansi Flick was looking for.

“We are extremely grateful to Rashford,” Deco told RAC1. “He made a big contribution last season, but our idea of ​​the game is more about Anthony. His style matches what a coach is looking for.

“We see every training session and analyze the team. We have a clear idea of ​​what we are looking for. One of the problems we had last season without Raphinha was that the team’s energy dropped. It was lost.

“We needed more intensity. We have analyzed many wingers. Signing someone from the Premier League is almost impossible, but [Hansi Flick] he was clear what he wanted, and from that moment we started working on the deal.”

Gordon has already made five appearances for Barcelona, ​​providing assists in La Liga victories over Elche, Rayo Vallecano and Valencia, but is still looking for his first goal.

Rashford has returned to first-team duties for the Red Devils, starting two of Manchester United’s three Premier League games this campaign.

Deco also weighed in on another summer transfer saga: Bernardo Silva was linked with a move to Barcelona from Manchester City but ended up moving to Real Madrid.

“In the end, he wasn’t what we were looking for. I love him. He is one of the best in the world in his position,” said Barça’s sporting director.

“He wanted to go to Barca, but it didn’t go forward because we have certain parameters. It was not only a financial issue, but also playing time.

“It’s not for me to decide whether he will play or not, it’s the coach’s decision. But after the game he had a different perception compared to us. [regularly] in the City. He wanted to play.”

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