Ronald Koeman’s Strange Attitude at Barcelona Press Conference

DBasia.news – Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman surprised the waiting media at his pre-match press conference versus Cadiz. Instead of answering questions, Koeman read the prepared statement and then immediately left. The press conference lasted only three minutes.

Barcelona lost 0-3 to Bayern Munich in the Champions League and drew 1-1 against Granada. Reportedly, Koeman will be sacked by Barcelona at the right time and appoint Belgium coach Roberto Martinez as his successor.

Koeman reiterated the need for patience in building a team, especially Barcelona entering a new era without Lionel Messi. In addition, in his statement Koeman also discussed the Champions League.

“The club stands with me as a coach in a rebuilding situation. The financial situation of the club is related to sporting activities and vice versa. This means we as a team have to rebuild without having to make a big financial investment. It will take time,” Koeman said, quoted by Goal.

“Today’s young talent could become the world’s next big star in just a few years. To reconstruct this team, young players have to get the opportunities that Xavi and Andres Iniesta had in their time. But we must ask for patience.”

“What’s more, being somewhere else in La Liga is a huge success. It’s a great football school for these talents. In the Champions League we can’t expect miracles. The defeat to Bayern Munich last week has to be seen from that perspective.”

“The process we are in right now, the staff and the team deserve unconditional support in word and deed. I know the press recognizes this process. This is not the first time in Barcelona’s history this has happened.”

“We are counting on your support at this difficult time. We, as staff and players, are very pleased with the incredible support from the fans like we got in the game against Granada.”

After reading the statement the Dutch coach left the room without answering the media’s questions. It is alleged that Koeman did so after rumors of his dismissal were widely circulated.

This has further heated up the issue of the fractured relationship between Koeman and Barcelona president Joan Laporta. The two exchanged words through the media following Barca’s inconsistent performance recently.