Barcelona Sporting Director Deco Plans to Build New Player Housing
Barcelona Sporting Director Deco has received public backing from President Joan Laporta and is actively working to implement changes at the club, despite facing transfer restrictions. His latest project involves constructing a “Barcelona house” for the players.
Under current manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona players are required to spend matchdays together at the Melia Torre Melina hotel near Camp Nou. Deco believes this arrangement is less than ideal, as the hotel is a public space that can be distracting for players.
His vision is to build a private residence close to the stadium where the Blaugrana squad can relax and focus before games. While the club has internally approved this project, logistical challenges remain, such as finding suitable space near the training ground.
The new housing would allow players to rest and recover at the training ground after late away matches, saving them time and energy. This approach is similar to Real Madrid’s practice of providing players with private rooms at their training ground.
Deco’s initiative aligns with the club’s focus on player welfare and performance. It is a departure from the previous practice under Pep Guardiola, who allowed players to go home to their families on matchdays.