Joan Laporta blames Deco for Nico Williams debacle as Barcelona president insists he wanted Luis Diaz or Marcus Rashford ahead of Athletic Club star

Joan Laporta has explained why Barcelona failed to sign Nico Williams, admitting Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford were always ahead on his wishlist.

  • Laporta Details Reasons Behind Unsuccessful Williams Transfer
  • Rashford and Díaz Emerged as Top Choices
  • Player’s Representative Initiated Contact with

Joan Laporta blames Deco for Nico Williams debacle as Barcelona president insists he wanted Luis Diaz or Marcus Rashford ahead of Athletic Club starJoan Laporta blames Deco for Nico Williams debacle as Barcelona president insists he wanted Luis Diaz or Marcus Rashford ahead of Athletic Club starJoan Laporta blames Deco for Nico Williams debacle as Barcelona president insists he wanted Luis Diaz or Marcus Rashford ahead of Athletic Club star

Barcelona’s Transfer Drama: Laporta Points Finger at Deco Over Nico Williams Saga

In a surprising twist to Barcelona’s summer transfer window, President Joan Laporta has openly critiqued the handling of the pursuit for Nico Williams, highlighting how initial preferences leaned toward stars like Díaz و Marcus Rashford. This revelation underscores the complexities of modern football negotiations, where promises can quickly unravel, leaving clubs to adapt swiftly to evolving circumstances.

Understanding the Collapse of Nico Williams’ Potential Move to Barcelona

Amid widespread rumors of a high-profile switch to the iconic Camp Nou stadium, the deal for the talented winger fell apart when the conditions outlined by his representative diverged sharply from initial discussions. Now 23, the player has committed his future to Athletic Club with a fresh contract extending to 2035, featuring a hiked release clause that jumped from €58 million (£49m/$66m) to more than €95m (£80m/$108m).

Barcelona’s Search for Wing Reinforcements

Throughout the offseason, the Blaugrana were actively scouting for fresh talent to bolster their attacking flanks. According to Laporta, his initial focus was on acquiring ‘s dynamic forward Díaz or Manchester ‘s versatile attacker Rashford, who ultimately made the move to Barcelona. However, it was sporting director Deco who persuaded him to entertain an offer from Williams’ side, leading to the eventual disappointment.

Laporta’s Insights from Recent Interview

In a candid conversation with Mundo Deportivo, the Barcelona leader explained: “Securing Luis Díaz proved challenging, and we were deep into talks with Rashford, yet the representative for Nico Williams reached out with an enticing opportunity. Deco advised that we should consider the pitch. Originally, my main interests were Díaz or Rashford. I typically defer to the expertise of our sporting team in such matters, and they felt it was worth exploring the details.”

He further elaborated: “A stark contrast emerged between the assurances we received and the reality of the financial arrangements, including commissions and other factors that signaled the agreement was unfeasible. Deco imposed a strict two-day ultimatum, stating that without alignment on our conditions, we’d walk away-and that’s precisely what occurred,” wrapping up his thoughts.

Future Outlook for Barcelona Post-Transfer Window

With Williams opting to remain at Athletic and Rashford now integrated into the squad, Barcelona appears set to rely on their existing wing options moving forward. As they gear up for the 2025-26 La Liga season, their first match takes them on the road to face . Recent updates show Rashford contributing impressively with 5 goals in his initial appearances, adding a fresh dimension to the team’s strategy amid ongoing financial constraints in European football.