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Ronald Koeman took on the press on Saturday to discuss all things Barcelona ahead of the club’s first La Liga game of the 2020-21 season against Villarreal at Camp Nou.
The Dutch coach spoke about the latest outburst of Lionel Messi, the departure of Luis Suárez, the future of Riqui Puig, the recovery of Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Ansu Fati.
Here are the best parts:
Koeman on Suárez
It seems like I’m the bad guy in this movie but I’m not. From the first day or after my call with Luis I have shown nothing but respect for him and for the player that he is. He has trained the best he could. I always told Luis that it could be difficult for him to play if he stays but if he stays he will be part of the lineup. Before signing, the club had already decided to change things. When I signed, I supported those decisions, but they had already been made.
Koeman is Messi
I think it’s normal for a player to feel sad when his friend has to leave the club after so many years together, that’s part of football. The most important thing for me is how Leo has been in training and games. He has been an example for everyone, showing his commitment to the club and the team. I have no doubts about Messi.
Koeman on Riqui Puig
There will be players who have a number in the first team, others will have a mumber from team B and these are decisions that have to be made. It is not true that I do not have it because tomorrow it is on the squad list, it is not a question of numbers.
It is not only with Riqui Puig. I understand that young players have to play. If Riqui or Aleñá decide to stay, it is their decision and they will have opportunities to show me that I can count on them.
Koeman is Ansu Fati
He is a great talent for the club. Few players his age have shown their level to play for Barcelona. He still needs to learn things, but he has made his debut for Spain and that means something. Lucho has chosen it because he has seen how good it is. For me he is a player for the future of the club. At his age now it is very impressive to have the level he has and to play in the first Barça team at his age.
Koeman on goalkeepers
As you know, Ter Stegen is injured. He’s doing his recovery work, he still needs a few more weeks. I am very happy with Neto. He’s working well, he’s a really good goalkeeper.
Koeman on Coutinho
We have to put each player in his best position, he can play as 10 or on the left wing. He also likes to defend and help the team, but I am interested in him showing his quality near the goal. Hopefully this season succeeds.
Koeman on transfers
We have to wait, there are still two more weeks left, I will respond when we know what we have, we are looking for players to improve the team, we must also understand the economic situation of the club. If I stick with these players, we will work hard to achieve what we want to achieve.
Koeman on defense
It is normal that we have to improve things in defense, we are going to change the system, we are going to press higher, it is a quite radical change and that costs. We need time.
