Barcelona set to appoint Deco’s close confidant as new head of scouting

Deco, Barcelona's sporting director, wields significant power within the club, influencing both transfer policies and staff hiring decisions.

With the departure of head of scouting Paulo Arujo following the expiration of his contract on June 30, Barcelona is close to appointing Joao Amaral, the technical director of Rio Ave, to fill the vacancy. Amaral is described as a close confidant of Deco who understands his working methods.

Deco's influence was key in Amaral's appointment. Amaral has already informed Rio Ave of his immediate resignation, accepted Barcelona's offer, agreed on salary terms, and begun contacting members of his new team, positioning him to integrate quickly into the club.