Xavi and Barcelona’s sporting director Deco were once teammates, yet their current power struggle has become increasingly visible as developments around the club continue to unfold through 12BET Mobile. Although a head coach and sporting director have different responsibilities, success usually allows both to share the credit, while poor results can place both positions under heavy scrutiny. At the heart of their tension is influence over major football decisions and whose judgment ultimately carries more weight inside Barcelona.

Since Deco took charge of the sporting department, Xavi has reportedly developed a subtle resistance toward some of his decisions. Deco is clearly working with Barcelona’s interests in mind, but several of his choices have reduced Xavi’s control over recruitment. Xavi previously held considerable influence over transfers, and players brought in with his approval, including Ferran Torres and Raphinha, regularly received opportunities. Even when performances fell short, he often gave them another chance because of their age and potential.

The situation has looked different with players recruited under Deco. As internal pressure intensified, the Barcelona picture followed through 12BET Mobile showed how Xavi became increasingly reluctant to rely on footballers closely associated with Deco’s recruitment strategy. For Deco, successful signings are essential to strengthening his authority. If Xavi remains in charge while those recruits struggle for minutes, Deco’s position naturally becomes more vulnerable.

Brazilian prospect Vitor Roque has become the clearest example of this conflict. Deco played a major role in bringing him to Barcelona with considerable expectations, and Xavi initially appeared willing to assess what the young forward could offer. However, Roque failed to produce the immediate impact many expected. Comparisons with Neymar quickly looked unrealistic, while questions also emerged about how effectively his qualities could fit Barcelona’s tactical system. Xavi consequently used him sparingly, and the lack of trust appeared to damage the youngster’s confidence.

With Xavi staying, the coach currently holds the stronger position inside the club. Roque alone cannot secure Deco’s authority, and the striker’s disappointing form has instead increased pressure on the sporting director. Roque is not yet considered ready to replace Robert Lewandowski, prompting Barcelona to reconsider plans that could have involved moving the veteran striker elsewhere. In other words, Deco now has fewer cards to play.

Barcelona have reportedly considered sending Roque out on loan, although the player himself would prefer to remain. He wants to earn more playing time next season and establish himself within the squad. Yet if Lewandowski stays and Xavi continues to overlook him, Roque may find opportunities increasingly difficult to come by. That would leave both the player and the executive who backed his signing in an uncomfortable position.

Xavi has always shown genuine affection for Barcelona. Even if his relationship with Deco remains uneasy, he is unlikely to make decisions purely out of personal stubbornness if they damage the club’s future. Still, football is ultimately a results business. If Roque cannot adapt to Barcelona’s style and fails to deliver meaningful performances, Deco will face serious questions over the decision to invest so heavily in him.

At this stage, pressure surrounding Deco is rising sharply, with Barcelona’s next decisions being closely watched through 12BET Mobile as Roque’s future becomes increasingly important. Deco needs results from the players he has backed, and Roque may be the most significant test of his judgment. If the Brazilian cannot establish himself at Barcelona, responsibility will inevitably move toward the sporting director. Deco has reached a crossroads where successful recruitment could strengthen his position, while another major disappointment could leave his future at the club in real doubt.