The former Barça coach, Ronald Koeman, spoke this morning about the current situation of the Blaugrana team during the presentation of the Koeman Cup of golf in Sant Esteve de Sesrovires. The Dutchman has addressed issues such as the possible return of Messi, the Negreira case or the figure of Xavi Hernández as a Barça coach.
Regarding the Argentine star, Koeman has said that he is in favor of him becoming a Barça player again. "He is the best player in the world, any team that can have him will be strong. I have lived closely his departure and it was a very bad day. When I see Leo with another shirt he still surprises me. I don't know how the subject is or what he thinks I read", has declared.
The Dutchman has also spoken about Barça's season, and has acknowledged that Xavi has improved the team that he left in November 2021. "It has been several seasons since they have been champions. Barça is a leader due to its quality and for defending well "He has only conceded nine goals. It is deserved. The champion is always deserved and you have to celebrate it", he assured.
Regarding Xavi, Koeman has said that he thinks he is the right person to lead the team. "He has been a Barça player and of a high category. He is a very good coach for this Barça. The few moments that I had to speak with him were with a lot of respect and a lot of work", he acknowledged.
The former Barça coach has also spoken about the Negreira case, but has not wanted to position himself. "It affects the image of the club a lot. I notice in the Netherlands that people now think differently. Barça has lost its image. It doesn't help. I can't give my opinion more because I don't know what has happened", he declared.
Koeman has also taken the opportunity to talk about players like Pedri, Jordi Alba or Frenkie de Jong. He has said of the canary that "he is an impressive player and that he has his feet on the ground", and about Alba he has recognized that for him he is "the best full-back in Spain".
It has also explained the absence of Frenkie de Jong with the selection. "We were focused after Barça-Madrid when Frenkie had the injury at the last minute. He traveled, he did tests, but he wasn't well. Surely he'll be able to play soon. You have to think about the club and you can't take someone who doesn't I was 100%."
Asked if he would have a coffee with Laporta, Koeman has acknowledged that "it is difficult for him". "We don't have to talk about the past either. The club will have its thoughts in that sense. I've already said what I think, we have to look to the future. Barça continues and I continue with my life. The damage wears off over time".
Regarding the defeat of the Spanish team against Scotland, the former Barça coach has said that he did not watch the game. "I had enough with ours. To prepare the Final Four I will see images and hopefully there will be a Spain-Netherlands final. I had the opportunity to speak with De la Fuente in the draw, he seemed like a nice man. He has played two games and criticize.. You have to give him time. Luis Enrique did a great job", he declared.
