Barcelona sporting director Deco has travelled to New York for Sunday's World Cup final, where he finds himself caught between two worlds: Lionel Messi and Argentina against a strong contingent of Blaugrana players representing Spain. The former Portugal midfielder acknowledged the emotional complexity of the occasion, admitting his loyalties are genuinely divided.
Speaking ahead of the showpiece at the New York-New Jersey Stadium, Deco reflected on the impossible choice facing him. "I always go with my own people, but my people are everywhere," he said. "Leo is always one of us. In the end, it's hard to choose. On one side, there's Leo, who, besides being a friend, has given everything to those of us who are Barca fans and football fans. He's a legend. For me, what he's doing is spectacular."
A Tournament of Contrasts
The Barcelona chief balanced his admiration for Messi's individual brilliance with recognition of the collective strength within the Spanish squad. Spain entered the final on the back of a 17-match unbeaten run, including a victory over France in the semi-final, while Argentina arrived on a 14-game winning streak after defeating England. Both teams demonstrated different paths to the final: Spain built momentum through disciplined, attacking football; Argentina showed resilience despite struggling in certain matches.
"Spain, after the semi-final, is playing well. Argentina is winning matches, and Leo is playing spectacularly. That's why I think it will be a great final," Deco explained. "Both teams have fantastic players. Spain is playing well and Argentina has struggled in some matches, but ultimately it comes down to the heart of the team. It's going to be a spectacular final."
Once the tournament concludes, Deco will return to Catalonia to oversee Barcelona's summer transfer strategy. The club is expected to announce new winger Karim Adeyemi next week, with ongoing negotiations continuing for Argentina forward Julian Alvarez as the Blaugrana look to strengthen their attacking depth for the season ahead.
