Barcelona could have had Bernardo Silva in their squad this season, but the Catalan giants ultimately decided against pursuing the Portuguese midfielder despite his desire to make the move to Camp Nou.
Softfootball reported back in June that Silva had officially become a Real Madrid player after signing a two-year contract with the Spanish giants, with an option that could extend his stay beyond 2028.
However, Deco’s explanation of the situation suggests Barcelona did not simply miss out on the veteran playmaker to their fierce rivals. Instead, the club deliberately chose not to pursue the transfer because Silva did not fit their recruitment priorities.
Silva had announced his intention to leave Manchester City when his contract expired and was repeatedly linked with a move to Barcelona. Reports had suggested that discussions between the player and the Catalan club had advanced considerably, with a Camp Nou move appearing increasingly possible.
The situation changed when Real Madrid entered the race, with Jose Mourinho reportedly pushing the Spanish giants to pursue the experienced midfielder. Madrid eventually won the battle, turning what could have been a Barcelona transfer into a move to the Spanish capital.
Barcelona had their reasons for rejecting Bernardo Silva
Deco, however, insists Barcelona’s decision was not simply about losing Silva to Real Madrid.
The Barcelona sporting director acknowledged the Portuguese international’s outstanding quality but explained that the club was not looking to strengthen the position he occupies. There were also concerns about Silva’s expectations regarding his role and the amount of playing time he would receive.
It wasn’t the position we were looking for. I love him – he’s one of the best in the world in his position and he’s Portuguese
Deco explained.
The comments underline that Barcelona were unwilling to change their recruitment strategy simply to accommodate a player of Silva’s calibre, even though his availability presented an attractive opportunity.
Deco was also asked about Real Madrid’s squad and acknowledged the quality available to their rivals. He praised their players and manager but made it clear that Barcelona would remain focused on their own objectives.
They’ve got some brilliant players, a great manager – my manager at Porto. I wish them luck, though not against us.
If they manage to build a team, it’ll be tough this season. We’ll just focus on our own game
he concluded.
From Barcelona’s perspective, Silva’s move to Real Madrid should therefore not necessarily be considered a failure in the transfer market.
The midfielder wanted to join the Catalan club, and talks had reportedly progressed, but Barcelona ultimately decided that his position was not an area they needed to reinforce. That decision allowed the club to maintain its recruitment priorities rather than reshape the squad around an available star.
In the end, Barcelona’s decision proved beneficial as they went on to sign Rodri from Manchester City, addressing a more pressing need in midfield. While Silva’s arrival would have added considerable experience and technical quality, Barça appear to have concluded that strengthening the squad in the right areas was more important than simply signing another high-profile name.
