Barcelona sporting director Deco has opened up on one of the most talked-about transfer decisions, explaining why the club chose not to push for the signing of highly-rated Brazilian winger Estevao Willian.
During his rise at Palmeiras, Estevao was widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in world football.
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Barcelona followed his progress closely and regularly received positive reports about his development. However, despite the interest, the club ultimately decided against making a serious move.
In 2024, it was Chelsea who acted decisively, securing the winger for a €34 million fixed fee, with a further €23 million included in performance-based add-ons.
Deciding against the move
Now, Deco has provided clear insight into Barcelona’s thinking and why the club felt the timing was not right.
Explaining the first and most obvious reason, the sporting director pointed to a familiar name already at the club.
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While discussing squad planning, Deco said, “There are several reasons.
“First, in the construction phase we are in, we have a player for the same position with similar characteristics named Lamine Yamal. It’s obvious,” he explained.
Deco acknowledged that elite talents can often coexist in the same team, but he stressed that this was not the core issue.
Addressing the tactical debate, he added,
“However, can they play together? Yes, great players always adapt. The problem is that our priorities were not to strengthen that position.”
More on the matter
Estevao signed for Cheslea in 2024. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
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From Barcelona’s perspective, investing heavily in another player with a similar profile to Lamine Yamal could have disrupted the wider sporting project.
Deco made it clear that difficult choices had to be made. Highlighting the financial reality, he continued,
“If you have money to spend and you invest it in a player with the same characteristics, then you can’t complain that you don’t have enough players for other positions,” he noted.
Importantly, Deco rejected the idea that the decision reflected doubts over Estevao’s talent.
“It’s a question of timing and Barcelona’s current situation, which meant they had to make other decisions, and this wasn’t one of them.”
Could have, would have…
He also hinted that tactical details played a role, referencing how the player’s profile fits the team. Speaking about possible alternatives, Deco said,
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“Perhaps if Estevao were a right-footed player who played on the other side, the solution would be there… but that was not the case.
“He is a player very similar to Lamine, although with different characteristics.”
In conclusion, Deco stood by the club’s call, insisting the choice was about balance, not ability. Reaffirming his stance, he said:
“He and Lamine are two great players, but at that moment, that wasn’t the decision.
“It has nothing to do with quality, but rather with Barça’s need to strengthen the team at that moment,” he noted.
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