Deco explains Barcelona choice of Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford

Barcelona sporting director Deco confirmed the club opted to sign Anthony Gordon rather than trigger a permanent transfer for Marcus Rashford this summer. Rashford, who spent last season on loan with the Catalan club, returned to Manchester United after Barcelona decided against extending his stay for £30.3m. Deco stated that the team’s tactical requirements under coach Hansi Flick necessitated a player with Gordon’s specific profile to provide additional intensity on the wing. While acknowledging Rashford’s contributions during the previous campaign, the sporting director noted that the squad lacked energy when Raphinha was unavailable, a gap the club believes Gordon fills. Barcelona secured Gordon from Newcastle United in a deal valued at more than 80m euros. The forward has since made five appearances for the club, recording four assists.

• 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — ‘We needed more intensity’ – Deco explains why Barcelona went for Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford
• 7:20 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona chief explains decision to sign Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford
• 3:30 PMBBC Sport — Gordon a better fit for Barca than Rashford - Deco
• 12:23 PMESPN Soccer — Barça's Deco: Gordon a better fit than Rashford