Barcelona sporting director Deco says Anthony Gordon was a better fit for Hansi Flick’s side than Marcus Rashford as the Catalan giants strengthened their squad this summer.

Rashford scored 14 goals in all competitions during his loan spell at Barcelona last season, helping the club win La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Barcelona had the option to sign the Manchester United forward permanently for £30.3 million (€35 million) after his 12-month loan, but opted against extending his stay.

The 28-year-old has since returned to Manchester United, while Barcelona turned their attention to England international Gordon.

Gordon joined Barcelona from Newcastle United in a deal worth more than €80 million (£69.3 million), making him one of the club’s biggest signings of the summer alongside Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

Deco praised Rashford’s contribution but explained that Gordon’s qualities better matched Flick’s tactical demands.

“We are extremely grateful to Rashford. He contributed a lot last season, but our idea of play is much more linked to Anthony. His style fits with what the coach is looking for,” Deco told Catalan radio station RAC1.

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According to Deco, Barcelona were looking for greater intensity and energy in attack, particularly when Raphinha was unavailable.

“In the case of Gordon, we saw that he was one of the figures we needed. When Raphinha wasn't on the pitch, the team lost energy and with him we could solve it,” he said.

Deco also revealed that Gordon was keen to move to Barcelona and played a role in pushing for the transfer.

“The big advantage we had is that the player wanted to come and he was able to put on pressure at Newcastle to be allowed to leave,” he noted.

Barcelona had considered several wingers before settling on Gordon, with Deco saying the club were specifically searching for a player capable of bringing more intensity to the team.

“We had a clear idea what we're looking for. We needed more intensity. We analysed a lot of wingers. Signing someone from the Premier League is almost impossible, but Flick was clear with what he wanted, and we worked on a deal from there,” he added.

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