The first half of Barça-Eintracht proves Deco right, Lamine Yamal gives the OK

One of the main protagonists of the Barça–Eintracht match is Deco. The Barça sporting director, although not directly influencing the game, is drawing all the attention from the stands at Camp Nou. He isn't there as a mere spectator: His mission tonight is key for the club's immediate future.

Since he arrived at Barça in the summer of 2023 alongside Joan Laporta, Deco has been building a very solid sporting project. Under his management, strategic signings like Joan García or Flick have arrived, but also crucial contract renewals such as those of Lamine Yamal, Pedri, or Fermín. His vision has caused internal consensus and enormous support among fans, who hold him in high regard.

Deco takes notes live on Nathaniel Brown

Tonight, however, Deco's prominence has a name: Nathaniel Brown. The Eintracht full-back has made his way onto Barça's agenda in recent weeks and the sporting director wants to analyze him live. In Germany, they claim Barça has sent scouts several times to follow him, and his performance justifies that interest.

Balde's level is raising doubts, especially due to his recurring physical problems. In addition, Gerard Martín is still in the process of maturing and can't take on the starting role in top-level matches. That's why Nathaniel Brown has a golden opportunity tonight to convince Deco of his fit at Barça.

For now, he's making the most of it. The young full-back has completely stopped Lamine Yamal throughout the first half, something very few defenders in Europe can do. His tactical awareness, his strength in duels, and his offensive courage have been a constant headache for Barça's right flank.

In addition, Nathaniel Brown capped off his excellent first half by assisting in Eintracht's goal with a trademark play. He stole the ball and used his excellent vision to thread a great pass behind the defense. This move confirms why so many European clubs have him on their radar for 2026.

Lamine Yamal gives the green light to Nathaniel Brown

Lamine Yamal, who rarely finds opponents capable of limiting him for so long, has suffered against Nathaniel Brown firsthand. It's clear that Deco was right when he put his name on Barça's agenda. He's ready to make the leap to the top level and fits perfectly into the evolution of the project he's designing for the coming years.

However, Eintracht won't let Nathaniel Brown leave at any price.  The first reports point to a valuation between €60 million and €70 million, a high amount but consistent with the current market and his potential. Deco will have to decide if he's in a position to make such an important investment.