"We are not as magnificent or exuberant as people said about us last season. We are a team when we work as one, then we are a difficult team to beat because, in addition, we have quality. But if we think that quality comes before work, we have a problem," he stated on Catalunya Radio's 'Tot Costa' programme.

Deco believes that "nothing serious is happening" despite suffering two defeats in a row against PSG (1-2) and Sevilla (4-1).  

Furthermore, the sporting director did not comment on the future of Robert Lewandowski, whose contract expires on 30 July when he will be almost 38 years old. Deco expressed his confidence that Frenkie de Jong's renewal will arrive "as soon as possible". He added that he is "talking" with Eric Garcia to renew his contract and claimed that all the summer departures, except for Inigo Martinez, were for "sporting reasons".