16 June 2005

Deco signs 5-year Barcelona deal

Luis Anderson de Souza, more commonly known as Deco, has had his superb first season at Barcelona rewarded with an improved and extended contract.

The Brazilian-born Portuguese star has put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him in Catalonia until 2010.

Many expected Deco to struggle to establish himself when he moved from the Portuguese Superliga to the Spanish giants, especially as he played in the same position as Ronaldinho, the Brazilian superstar who many believe to be the best player in world today.

However, Deco made a big impact from day one, fitting perfectly into Frank Rijkaard’s exciting Barcelona team, helping the club to their first La Liga triumph in 5 years.

The silky-skilled 27-year-old said he had no hesitation in committing his long-term future to Barcelona. “Other offers were made but I never wanted to talk about them. I always wanted to stay here, the club wants me to stay, so it was easy to reach agreement.”