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Barcelona's sporting director has praised summer acquisition Anthony Gordon as a far superior "fit" for Hansi Flick's system compared to Marcus Rashford.
Rashford, who has since returned to parent club Manchester United, had a productive spell at Camp Nou in 2025–26—netting 14 goals and providing 11 assists across all competitions while collecting winners' medals in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
Despite this, Barça raised eyebrows by choosing not to exercise the purchase option on the 28-year-old at the conclusion of his season-long loan—with the buyout clause set at just €35 million ($40 million)—instead electing to pursue Rashford's pricier England compatriot, Gordon.
Gordon, 25, ultimately signed with Barcelona for approximately €80 million ($93 million) including bonuses and has made an immediate impression, racking up four assists in as many matches during an unbeaten opening to the 2026–27 campaign.
'Gordon a Better Fit Than Rashford'—Deco
Deco praised Gordon's stylistic compatibility with Barça, disclosing that the club's priority was to recruit a player who brought greater "intensity" to their attacking play.
"We are incredibly thankful to Rashford," Deco told Catalan radio station RAC1, addressing the contrasts between the two wide attackers.
"He gave a lot last season, but our footballing philosophy is much more aligned with Anthony's. His approach matches exactly what the manager demands.
"In Gordon's case, we identified him as one of the profiles we were looking for.
"When Raphinha was absent, the team lost its spark, and with him we could address that. The major advantage we had was that the player was eager to join and was willing to apply pressure [on Newcastle to sanction his departure]."
He continued: "We had a very clear vision of what we needed. More intensity was the priority. We scouted a large number of wingers. Signing someone from the Premier League is nearly impossible, but [Flick] was precise about his requirements and we pursued the deal from there."
What Next for Rashford?
Deco's remarks may sting for Rashford, who has previously drawn criticism regarding his pressing and work rate in attack.
Following Barcelona's decision against making his move permanent, viable landing spots for the England international—who commands a salary of around £325,000 ($440,000) per week—became severely limited. Reports suggest there were enquiries made to United—including from Turkish Süper Lig heavyweights Fenerbahçe—during the transfer window, but none of the interest materialized into a deal.
Rashford has since been welcomed back into the United first-team fold this season, earning two starts under Michael Carrick to date. Nevertheless, lingering questions about his long-term future at the club persist.
"He's contributing to the squad; that's plain to see," United boss Carrick said of Rashford in August, following the 5–2 win over Ipswich.
"I've known him for some time. He wasn't here when I returned, and now he is. I think he's making the most of that opportunity—for us and for himself—to be here. He's one of our own. He's living his dream, playing here and striving to succeed and win.
"Whatever has happened in the past, I think within this club, there were players who perhaps were set to leave but didn't. It always comes down to what you do next and what your intentions are.
"He's been absolutely brilliant since his return, I have to say, and it was wonderful to see him out on the pitch for us today. Marcus feels like a brand new signing."