Jordi Cruyff steps down as Barcelona's sporting director

After two years with the Catalan giants, the Dutchman's departure opens the door for former Barcelona and Portugal star Deco to potentially assume the position.

In an interview with The Athletic, Cruyff shed light on his decision to resign from his directorial role at the esteemed club, saying, "Barcelona contacted me during a particularly challenging time for the club. I was always going to answer that call; there's a special connection I have with this club. However, I had been coaching and relishing the experience for five years before joining Barcelona."

He continued, "I was in China, then I accepted the Ecuador job. Unfortunately, the outbreak of Covid-19 led to a halt in games. Subsequently, I returned to China. Everything was going well, but I chose to answer Barcelona's call and fulfilled that role for two years.

"Now, I have a desire to return to coaching, which is where I was before joining Barcelona. The club offered me a longer contract last year, but I opted for a shorter one as I knew I would eventually want to resume coaching."

Cruyff emphasized that his decision was not hasty, revealing, "I contemplated it for months. This is what I feel compelled to do now. It doesn't mean I no longer aspire to work as a sporting director; I am equipped for both roles. Yet, presently, I prefer the path of coaching. I have been carefully examining various options, selecting the one that resonates most with me."

Cruyff also disclosed that coaching offers came his way while he served at Barcelona and intends to take a hiatus to carefully consider the best move for his career.