Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu has insisted Coach Luis Enrique was behind the signing of Douglas.
Interviewed by Mundo Depiortivo, Bartomeu expanded on the signing of the defender and moved to dismiss comparisons with failed imports from Brazil, Kerrison and Henrique.
“The most important thing is that Douglas is a player asked for by the technical secretary and Coach Luis Enrique,” the President insisted.
“I remember the other two weren’t requested by Pep Guardiola. The second big difference is the price.
“We have tried to keep the price as low as possible. €4m for a full-back wanted by the sporting director and Luis Enrique is a very low price in the current market.”
Asked about the situation of Douglas’ fellow Brazilian right-back, Dani Alves, Bartomeu revealed he hadn’t dealt with the player.
“The President doesn’t have to do that. He talks to the Coach,” he said.
“As we saw the other day, he had an outstanding game. The club is good to all its players and he is a valuable asset.”
On the subject of Xavi Hernandez, Bartomeu conceded that if the veteran wants to leave the club in the New Year, he will be able to.
“Xavi knows, and we have said many times, that he has earned the right to decide what he wants to do,” Bartomeu continued.
“If he stays, we’re happy to have him and if he goes we will help him leave. He has earned the right for many reasons.
“We will see if one day he is offered the chance to return as Coach.”
