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Ronald Koeman has dismissed Quique Setien’s claims that Lionel Messi may be a problem in Barcelona’s dressing room. The former Blaugrana coach recently admitted that it was difficult for him to manage the Argentine during his time at the Camp Nou.
Despite his attempts to leave the Catalan club in the summer, Messi remains Barcelona’s captain with Koeman this season and the pair share a good working relationship. “For me, Leo is a very good player, the best in the world,” Koeman said during Tuesday’s pre-game press conference. “Every day I see his ambition and his winning mentality. I have no difficulty getting along with him.” For me, he is the captain. Every week I talk to him about things on the field and in the locker room. I don’t agree with that, but I respect Setien. If he thinks like that, it will be like that for him. “
Barcelona haven’t won in their last four league games, but are in a good position in their Champions group. “I understand the criticism,” Koeman added. “Getting two points in four games is not good. It is normal to be criticized. I accept it, I guess [responsibility] and I will keep working to improve things. “There is never a dull day because there is always something. In the end, winning games is what counts.” I have received a lot of comments from fans, who are happy. [They’re not happy] with the two points in LaLiga [from the last four games]. We are a team that has created the clearest chances per game. We have to increase this factor. We are not happy with these figures. The image is positive. “
After letting Luis Suárez go in the summer, Koeman regrets not bringing in another striker to replace him. “I’ve said many times that we are missing one,” Koeman said of the need for a forward. “It is the most important thing for the club in January. I do not want to force it, because I arrived knowing the financial state of the club. If it is not possible, it is not possible and we will work with what.” I’ve got.”
Barcelona’s younger players have stepped up this season, with Ansu Fati and Pedri some of the best players on the team. “We know we have quality young players,” Koeman said. “It always depends on the performance of these players. As a coach, I have to protect young players.” Pedri is a boy who cannot play every game. For them, it is a lot physically. The young players are here to change things at the club. They deserve to play. “
Koeman spoke before Barcelona’s Champions League group stage game against Dynamo Kiev at the Camp Nou. “The goals are the same: play good football and create chances,” Koeman said. “You have to win your games at home. For now, we want to continue in that sense, winning games in the Champions League.” We have spoken and we know that the Dynamo have their problems. [with numerous coronavirus cases]. They did their tests this morning [Tuesday], but I don’t know the rules, nor the UEFA regulations. Hope we can play [the game]. “
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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