Deco: Happy with all signings, we didn't sign Rodri to steal him from Real Madrid

Deco, Barcelona's sporting director, spoke after the Catalan team's 2-1 victory over Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy, confirming that all of the club's signings were made with a clear vision in mind, and that the acquisition of Rodri was not intended to disrupt Real Madrid's plans.

Deco stated: "We are happy with everyone, all the signings we made have meaning. Before signing any player, we discuss it a lot before making a decision."

Barcelona's sporting director commented on Rodri: "Initially, he wasn't part of our plans because we thought he was unavailable. When we saw there was a chance to sign him, we tried to make it happen, and we succeeded, just like with Gordon, Adeyemi, Bellingham, and Cancelo."

Deco stated: "Everything makes sense to improve the team, and Rodri makes the team better."

Barcelona's sporting director has denied that the signing of Rodri is linked to the club's desire to deprive Real Madrid of the player, stating: "We did not sign him to steal a player from Real Madrid; that would be a mistake."

Deco concluded his statements by praising Rodri's potential, saying: "He is one of the best midfielders in the world, we have a clear conviction that he can make a difference, and that’s why signing him makes sense."