FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defended his star player Lionel Messi, who was visibly angry when journalists asked him about allegations levied by Griezmann's former agent.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-madness-lionel-messi-on-being-blamed-for-all-problems-at-barcelona-344083" hreflang="en">'It's madness': Lionel Messi on being blamed for all problems at Barcelona</a>

"I need to defend Leo because if something happened to me after a trip of 15 hours in a plane back to Barcelona — you go outside and there is a lot of press asking that type of question — I would be dangerous and hate them as well," Koeman said on Friday.

"We have to respect people like Messi more. And from what I have seen on the field and in training, there is no problem between (Messi and Griezmann)."

Eric Olhats, who was Griezmann's agent till 2016, alleged that Messi is too controlling in the club and has marginalized Griezmann in his "regime of terror".&nbsp;

Koeman said that he is confident that the 33-year-old star will continue to play for Barcelona.&nbsp;

"I hope he will stay in Barcelona," Koeman said. "I think it is unbelievable what he has done for this club, but he is the main person to make a decision about his future."

FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defended his star player Lionel Messi, who was visibly angry when journalists asked him about allegations levied by Griezmann's former agent.

FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defended his star player Lionel Messi, who was visibly angry when journalists asked him about allegations levied by Griezmann's former agent. Also read: 'It's madness': Lionel Messi on being blamed for all problems at Barcelona "I need to defend Leo because if something happened to me after a trip of 15 hours in a plane back to Barcelona — you go outside and there is a lot of press asking that type of question — I would be dangerous and hate them as well," Koeman said on Friday. "We have to respect people like Messi more. And from what I have seen on the field and in training, there is no problem between (Messi and Griezmann)." Eric Olhats, who was Griezmann's agent till 2016, alleged that Messi is too controlling in the club and has marginalized Griezmann in his "regime of terror". Koeman said that he is confident that the 33-year-old star will continue to play for Barcelona. "I hope he will stay in Barcelona," Koeman said. "I think it is unbelievable what he has done for this club, but he is the main person to make a decision about his future."

'We have to respect': Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defends Lionel Messi

Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Alaves on Saturday has left Ronald Koeman scratching his head as the former Dutch international cursed his side’s profligacy after dropping points for the fourth game in a row in La Liga 2020-21.

Alaves goalkeeper Fernando Pachecho was at his best as he almost stopped everything despite Barcelona firing a staggering 25 shots. It was only Antoine Griezmann who could breach the goal line once after Jota was sent off for the hosts.

Barcelona trailed in the first-half after Luis Rioja capitalized on a glaring error by Neto after a mix-up with defender Gerard Pique.&nbsp;

“I’m worried about our performance in attack. We don’t have a problem with our attitude or concentration, we just need to be more efficient in front of goal,” Koeman told reporters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-held-by-10-man-alaves-to-extend-winless-streak-in-la-liga-339388" hreflang="en">Barcelona held by 10-man Alaves to extend winless streak in La Liga</a>

“We also gifted a goal to Alaves, but when you create so many chances you can’t afford to miss them. If you create that many chances and only score once, it’s not good.”

The surprise draw against Alaves came after Barcelona lost 3-1 to Real Madrid in El Clasico and were defeated by Getafe. Currently, they are 12th in the La Liga standings with just eight points in six matches.&nbsp;

“I’m surprised I’m being criticised for the image I gave on the touchline. I think we did everything we could from the dugout and on the pitch,” he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/seven-years-is-a-long-gap-mourinho-says-fans-cannot-expect-same-from-bale-339275" hreflang="en">'Seven years is a long gap': Mourinho says fans cannot expect same from Bale</a>

“In the last 10 minutes, we played as we needed to play. If you criticise me for how I appear on the touchline, then we might as well give up.”

The Dutchman added: “Of course I’m worried that we’ve only got two points from the last 12. I think overall we played ok, I’d be more worried if we weren’t creating chances.

“But we need to do better in front of goal, with the final pass, the final shot. We cannot afford to squander so many chances, we missed too many.” 
&nbsp;

Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Alaves on Saturday has left Ronald Koeman scratching his head as the former Dutch international cursed his side’s profligacy after dropping points for the fourth game in a row in La Liga 2020-21.

Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Alaves on Saturday has left Ronald Koeman scratching his head as the former Dutch international cursed his side’s profligacy after dropping points for the fourth game in a row in La Liga 2020-21. Alaves goalkeeper Fernando Pachecho was at his best as he almost stopped everything despite Barcelona firing a staggering 25 shots. It was only Antoine Griezmann who could breach the goal line once after Jota was sent off for the hosts. Barcelona trailed in the first-half after Luis Rioja capitalized on a glaring error by Neto after a mix-up with defender Gerard Pique. “I’m worried about our performance in attack. We don’t have a problem with our attitude or concentration, we just need to be more efficient in front of goal,” Koeman told reporters. ALSO READ: Barcelona held by 10-man Alaves to extend winless streak in La Liga “We also gifted a goal to Alaves, but when you create so many chances you can’t afford to miss them. If you create that many chances and only score once, it’s not good.” The surprise draw against Alaves came after Barcelona lost 3-1 to Real Madrid in El Clasico and were defeated by Getafe. Currently, they are 12th in the La Liga standings with just eight points in six matches. “I’m surprised I’m being criticised for the image I gave on the touchline. I think we did everything we could from the dugout and on the pitch,” he said. ALSO READ: 'Seven years is a long gap': Mourinho says fans cannot expect same from Bale “In the last 10 minutes, we played as we needed to play. If you criticise me for how I appear on the touchline, then we might as well give up.” The Dutchman added: “Of course I’m worried that we’ve only got two points from the last 12. I think overall we played ok, I’d be more worried if we weren’t creating chances. “But we need to do better in front of goal, with the final pass, the final shot. We cannot afford to squander so many chances, we missed too many.”

La Liga: Wasteful Barcelona leaves Ronald Koeman concerned

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-rashford-tops-list-of-uk-honours-for-key-virus-workers-334253" hreflang="en">Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers</a>

“Those days were very difficult. I cried because of what I was having to go through,” Suarez told the Uruguay national team’s official media after scoring in Thursday’s 2-1 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier.

“I didn’t take the club’s message that they were looking for a solution for me in order to mix things up very well. I was hurt most of all by the way they did things, because one has to accept it when a cycle comes to an end.”

In six years as a Barca forward Suarez became third all-time top scorer with 198 goals he lifted four La Liga titles, four domestic cups and the 2015 Champions League with the Catalans before leaving for Atletico Madrid.&nbsp;

He was forced out with one year left on his contract after being told by new coach Ronald Koeman he was no longer in the team’s plans.&nbsp;

“Not everyone knows what happened but the worst thing was going to training and being sent to a different group from everyone else because I was not allowed to play in practice matches,” Suarez said.

“My wife could see how unhappy I was and she wanted to see me smile again and when the chance came to join Atletico I had no doubts.”

The striker, 33, gave a tearful farewell news conference the day before signing for Atletico while Lionel Messi, his old strike partner, hit out at the club’s treatment of the Uruguayan.

“I wasn’t surprised that Messi supported me publicly because I know him too well. He knew the pain I was going through, the feeling that I was being kicked out was what hurt me the most,” added Suarez.

“The way they did things was not right and Leo knows how me and my family suffered.”

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks. Also read: Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers “Those days were very difficult.

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks. Also read: Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers “Those days were very difficult. I cried because of what I was having to go through,” Suarez told the Uruguay national team’s official media after scoring in Thursday’s 2-1 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier. “I didn’t take the club’s message that they were looking for a solution for me in order to mix things up very well. I was hurt most of all by the way they did things, because one has to accept it when a cycle comes to an end.” In six years as a Barca forward Suarez became third all-time top scorer with 198 goals he lifted four La Liga titles, four domestic cups and the 2015 Champions League with the Catalans before leaving for Atletico Madrid. He was forced out with one year left on his contract after being told by new coach Ronald Koeman he was no longer in the team’s plans. “Not everyone knows what happened but the worst thing was going to training and being sent to a different group from everyone else because I was not allowed to play in practice matches,” Suarez said. “My wife could see how unhappy I was and she wanted to see me smile again and when the chance came to join Atletico I had no doubts.” The striker, 33, gave a tearful farewell news conference the day before signing for Atletico while Lionel Messi, his old strike partner, hit out at the club’s treatment of the Uruguayan. “I wasn’t surprised that Messi supported me publicly because I know him too well. He knew the pain I was going through, the feeling that I was being kicked out was what hurt me the most,” added Suarez. “The way they did things was not right and Leo knows how me and my family suffered.”

'I cried': Luis Suarez over treatment in final days at Barcelona

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season.

Messi gave an outstanding performance in Barca’s 3-0 win over Celta Vigo on Thursday after playing the whole second half with 10 men, crushing any fears that the Argentine might lack commitment after the club refused to let him leave.

“From day one Leo has trained and played well and has given the maximum for the club, for his team and for his team mates and I have had no complaints about him on any day,” Koeman said ahead of Barca’s La Liga game at home to Sevilla on Sunday.

“He proved himself once again the other day against Celta, he pulled his weight as a captain, he helped the team play the ball out from the back because it’s so important to keep the ball when you have one less player.

“There’s no debate, for me he has always been the best player in the world, I thought that before from the outside and I think it even more now I’m working with him. He’s fully committed, he’s an example to everyone as a captain should be.”

Koeman also praised the form of Philippe Coutinho, who has thrived since returning from a loan spell at Bayern Munich, having flopped in his first two seasons with the Catalans after a club record move from Liverpool in 2018.

“Coutinho is a very good player, he has learned a lot in England and with Bayern and my job as a coach is to get the best out of each player and find their best role,” he said.

“A coach can help but it all starts with the quality of a player and Coutinho is a great footballer.”

The Dutchman also said Barca want to sign a striker and a centre back before the transfer window shuts, confirming their interest in Manchester City defender Eric Garcia.

“We would like to sign this player, we have four centre backs and we are short there. We know it’s difficult financially but I hope we can get it done,” Koeman said.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season. Messi gave an outstanding performance in Barca’s 3-0 win over Celta Vigo on Thursday after playing the whole second half with 10 men, crushing any fears that the Argentine might lack commitment after the club refused to let him leave. “From day one Leo has trained and played well and has given the maximum for the club, for his team and for his team mates and I have had no complaints about him on any day,” Koeman said ahead of Barca’s La Liga game at home to Sevilla on Sunday. “He proved himself once again the other day against Celta, he pulled his weight as a captain, he helped the team play the ball out from the back because it’s so important to keep the ball when you have one less player. “There’s no debate, for me he has always been the best player in the world, I thought that before from the outside and I think it even more now I’m working with him. He’s fully committed, he’s an example to everyone as a captain should be.” Koeman also praised the form of Philippe Coutinho, who has thrived since returning from a loan spell at Bayern Munich, having flopped in his first two seasons with the Catalans after a club record move from Liverpool in 2018. “Coutinho is a very good player, he has learned a lot in England and with Bayern and my job as a coach is to get the best out of each player and find their best role,” he said. “A coach can help but it all starts with the quality of a player and Coutinho is a great footballer.” The Dutchman also said Barca want to sign a striker and a centre back before the transfer window shuts, confirming their interest in Manchester City defender Eric Garcia. “We would like to sign this player, we have four centre backs and we are short there. We know it’s difficult financially but I hope we can get it done,” Koeman said.

Messi has given maximum since ending transfer saga, says Barca coach Koeman

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Sunday said that he has no concerns about Lionel Messi after he lashed out at the club over Luis Suarez's departure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-deserved-a-farewell-lionel-messi-blasts-on-barcelona-over-luis-suarezs-departure-330201" hreflang="en">'You deserved a farewell': Lionel Messi blasts on Barcelona over Luis Suarez's departure</a>

According to Koeman, it was not solely his decision to let Suarez join Atletico Madrid, with the Dutchman insisting he is not the "bad guy in the movie".&nbsp;

On Friday, Lionel Messi criticized Barcelona for the way Suarez was "removed" from the club. He said: "You did not deserve for them to throw you out like they did. But the truth is that at this stage nothing surprises me anymore."

Koeman said in a press conference on Saturday he was not worried about Messi, despite his captain's latest show of frustration.&nbsp;

"It is normal for a player to be a bit sad when a friend of theirs leaves after the years that they have had together, it is part of football," said Koeman.&nbsp;

"But the most important thing for me is how he has been. In training and in games, I think Leo has been an example for everyone, in his commitment to the club and to the team. I have no doubts about Leo in this regard."

Barcelona will face Villarreal on Sunday at Camp Nou, and Messi is expected to start as the skipper.

Koeman was reported to have held a direct and short telephone conversation with Suarez about his future, but Barca's new coach claims the decision was not only his.&nbsp;

"At first it was like I was the bad guy in the movie," said Koeman. "It's not like that because from the first day or after my call with Luis I showed respect for the player and the person he is.&nbsp;

"He trained to the maximum from the first day, and I always told him it could be difficult for him to play but if he stayed he would be one of the squad and could work like the others.&nbsp;

"That's what I told the club too, but these are decisions made by the club. Before signing the contract the club was thinking about changing things, and I have tried to support those decisions.&nbsp;

"But it was not only my decision as a manager, they are decisions of the club as well."

Suarez becomes the fourth player after Ivan Rakitic, Nelson Semedo and Arturo Vidal to bid goodbye to the Catalan club.&nbsp;

(Inputs from AFP)

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Sunday said that he has no concerns about Lionel Messi after he lashed out at the club over Luis Suarez's departure. Also read: 'You deserved a farewell': Lionel Messi blasts on Barcelona over Luis Suarez's departure According to Koeman, it was not solely his decision to let Suarez join Atletico Madrid, with the Dutchman insisting he is not the "bad guy in the movie".

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Sunday said that he has no concerns about Lionel Messi after he lashed out at the club over Luis Suarez's departure. Also read: 'You deserved a farewell': Lionel Messi blasts on Barcelona over Luis Suarez's departure According to Koeman, it was not solely his decision to let Suarez join Atletico Madrid, with the Dutchman insisting he is not the "bad guy in the movie". On Friday, Lionel Messi criticized Barcelona for the way Suarez was "removed" from the club. He said: "You did not deserve for them to throw you out like they did. But the truth is that at this stage nothing surprises me anymore." Koeman said in a press conference on Saturday he was not worried about Messi, despite his captain's latest show of frustration. "It is normal for a player to be a bit sad when a friend of theirs leaves after the years that they have had together, it is part of football," said Koeman. "But the most important thing for me is how he has been. In training and in games, I think Leo has been an example for everyone, in his commitment to the club and to the team. I have no doubts about Leo in this regard." Barcelona will face Villarreal on Sunday at Camp Nou, and Messi is expected to start as the skipper. Koeman was reported to have held a direct and short telephone conversation with Suarez about his future, but Barca's new coach claims the decision was not only his. "At first it was like I was the bad guy in the movie," said Koeman. "It's not like that because from the first day or after my call with Luis I showed respect for the player and the person he is. "He trained to the maximum from the first day, and I always told him it could be difficult for him to play but if he stayed he would be one of the squad and could work like the others. "That's what I told the club too, but these are decisions made by the club. Before signing the contract the club was thinking about changing things, and I have tried to support those decisions. "But it was not only my decision as a manager, they are decisions of the club as well." Suarez becomes the fourth player after Ivan Rakitic, Nelson Semedo and Arturo Vidal to bid goodbye to the Catalan club. (Inputs from AFP)

'I have no doubts about Lionel Messi', says Barca coach Ronald Koeman

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join.

According to a report in Onda Cero, Barca is trying to add Atletico to a &nbsp;'vetoed clubs' that he can't join, alongside rivals Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite Barca wanting to get rid of the player, they are not risking sending him to rival club and scoring against Barcelona.&nbsp;

Free-agent Edison Cavani is also linked with Diego Simeone side, he is being seen as a backup signing if the deal with Suarez crashes.&nbsp;

Earlier, Suarez was linked to Juventus, but as Juve have secured a deal for Alvaro Morata on loan, his deal with the Italian side looks off the table.&nbsp;

Onda Cero's report claims that Suarez and Barcelona have reached an agreement to cancel his contract, but the signing has yet to take place and this latest twist in events could change things. &nbsp;

It has been reported that Simeone is desperate to get Suarez through the door to add some much-needed attackers to his Atletico team.

If the deal does go through, Suarez would sign for two seasons and receive a net salary of £8.3million in each of them.

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join.

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join. According to a report in Onda Cero, Barca is trying to add Atletico to a 'vetoed clubs' that he can't join, alongside rivals Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. Despite Barca wanting to get rid of the player, they are not risking sending him to rival club and scoring against Barcelona. Free-agent Edison Cavani is also linked with Diego Simeone side, he is being seen as a backup signing if the deal with Suarez crashes. Earlier, Suarez was linked to Juventus, but as Juve have secured a deal for Alvaro Morata on loan, his deal with the Italian side looks off the table. Onda Cero's report claims that Suarez and Barcelona have reached an agreement to cancel his contract, but the signing has yet to take place and this latest twist in events could change things. It has been reported that Simeone is desperate to get Suarez through the door to add some much-needed attackers to his Atletico team. If the deal does go through, Suarez would sign for two seasons and receive a net salary of £8.3million in each of them.

La Liga: Barca looking to block Luis Suarez's move to Atletico Madrid

Dutch daily De Telegraaf on Tuesday reported that Lyon striker Memphis Depay has completed his transfer to Barcelona which is worth 25 million euros ($29.6 million).

Dutch daily De Telegraaf on Tuesday reported that Lyon striker Memphis Depay has completed his transfer to Barcelona which is worth 25 million euros ($29.6 million). Also read: Star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang signs new Arsenal contract Depay has been regularly a part of the playing XI when Ronald Koeman (current Barcelona coach) was in charge of the national team, and if the deal is successful the Dutch striker will join Frenkie de Jong. "Barcelona hope to confirm officially the transfer and introduce Depay to Camp Nou later in the week," said De Telegraaf. According to the daily, the transfer amount would be 25 million euros plus five million euros at the end of this season, and two million euros in bonuses. Earlier, Barca's coach Koeman told the Uruguayan Luis Suarez that he wasn't in his plans for the coming season. Also read: Big-spending Chelsea start with win at Brighton Depay played a vital role in Lyon's progress to the Champions League semi-final and scored a hat-trick in their opening Ligue 1 win of the season over Dijon. However, he had announced that he did not wish to extend his contract in France and has never hidden his desire to play "for a bigger club" than Lyon. He began his career with PSV Eindhoven before moving to Manchester United and, in 2017, Lyon. (Inputs from AFP)

Lyon's Memphis Depay packing his bags for Barcelona to join Ronald Koeman: Reports

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final.&nbsp;

“What we need to do is give a different image to what we gave against Bayern, that’s not the Barca we or the fans want to see,” Koeman said at his presentation after signing a two-year deal with Barca.

“You have to be very happy wear the Barca shirt. You have to show that with commitment, professionalism, with everything you have inside. If we do that, the image will be totally different to what it was last week.”

Koeman, who helped Barcelona win their first European Cup in 1992 during a golden six-year-spell in Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team, quit his role as the Netherlands coach to take the charge at Nou Camp.

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The Dutchman said that the Barcelona was his home and dream while admitting it is not the easiest of time to get back to his former club, who suffered their first trophy-less season in 12 years.&nbsp;

“We’re going to work very hard to build a strong team but we’ll have to make changes because the image of the other day is not what we want. We’ll have to work hard to recover our prestige,” he said.

“It’s a big challenge and it won’t be easy because Barca always demands the best of you, which is the way it should be.

“Barca are still the biggest club in the world. Now we have to work hard to make sure Barca gets back to where they should be. There is enough quality in the team to demand the best results and to win trophies.”

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However, Koeman didn’t reveal the name of players who would be shown the door while making it clear he wanted players who were fully committed.&nbsp;

“I don’t want to mention names, we have to look in the club’s best interests and make the best squad possible to try and win games,” he said.

“There are players of a certain age who you can start to doubt, although a player who is 31, 32 or even 33 is not necessarily finished, it all depends on your hunger and whether you want to give everything for the club.

“I only want to work with players who want to be here, and if they are not happy here then they should say so. I only want people who are going to give everything for Barca.” 
&nbsp;

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final.

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final. “What we need to do is give a different image to what we gave against Bayern, that’s not the Barca we or the fans want to see,” Koeman said at his presentation after signing a two-year deal with Barca. “You have to be very happy wear the Barca shirt. You have to show that with commitment, professionalism, with everything you have inside. If we do that, the image will be totally different to what it was last week.” Koeman, who helped Barcelona win their first European Cup in 1992 during a golden six-year-spell in Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team, quit his role as the Netherlands coach to take the charge at Nou Camp. ALSO READ: Premier League 2020-21 fixtures: When do the 'Big Six' lock horns? The Dutchman said that the Barcelona was his home and dream while admitting it is not the easiest of time to get back to his former club, who suffered their first trophy-less season in 12 years. “We’re going to work very hard to build a strong team but we’ll have to make changes because the image of the other day is not what we want. We’ll have to work hard to recover our prestige,” he said. “It’s a big challenge and it won’t be easy because Barca always demands the best of you, which is the way it should be. “Barca are still the biggest club in the world. Now we have to work hard to make sure Barca gets back to where they should be. There is enough quality in the team to demand the best results and to win trophies.” ALSO READ: Demba Ba urges football to 'stand up' over China's Uighurs However, Koeman didn’t reveal the name of players who would be shown the door while making it clear he wanted players who were fully committed. “I don’t want to mention names, we have to look in the club’s best interests and make the best squad possible to try and win games,” he said. “There are players of a certain age who you can start to doubt, although a player who is 31, 32 or even 33 is not necessarily finished, it all depends on your hunger and whether you want to give everything for the club. “I only want to work with players who want to be here, and if they are not happy here then they should say so. I only want people who are going to give everything for Barca.”

Show commitment or leave: Ronald Koeman promises to revive Barcelona

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday.

Koeman, who is revered by Barca fans for delivering their first European Cup as a player, will be expected to lead the club’s rebuilding work after they were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals last Friday.

“If there is no change then we will announce Koeman as our next coach and he will lead this team and these players forward with a different type of project, led by a coach who all Barca fans know,” Bartomeu said in an interview with the club’s official television channel.

Koeman’s imminent arrival will be the third phase of a restructuring of the club which began with Quique Setien’s sacking on Monday and continued on Tuesday as sporting director Eric Abidal agreed to terminate his contract.

Koeman, 57, arrived in Barcelona on Tuesday after spending the morning at the Netherlands’ headquarters to negotiate being released from his contract with the national team, who he has coached since 2018 and led to qualify for Euro 2020.

Koeman is fondly remembered at Barca for the role he played in Johan Cruyff’s hugely successful side known as the ‘Dream Team’ and for scoring the only goal against Sampdoria in the 1992 European Cup final.

The defender later became the club’s assistant coach before embarking on an eventful career as a head coach, managing Dutch sides Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord plus Premier League teams Southampton and Everton and La Liga’s Valencia.

“We are betting on him because we know him very well, we know how he thinks and how his teams play, but also because of his experience and as he was in Johan’s ‘Dream Team’ he knows Barca and how we understand football,” Bartomeu added.

Bartomeu also said captain Messi was not about to leave the club and would be an integral part of the team under Koeman.

“Messi wants to end his career at Barca, he has said that many times. I’ve spoken to Koeman about him and he has told me Messi will be the pillar of his project,” Bartomeu said.

“Messi has a contract with Barca until 2021. I speak to him and his father regularly and they know that we have a solid project, that a new coach is coming and that he will count on him.”

Bartomeu, who on Monday announced that the club’s presidential elections will take place in March 2021, three months earlier than planned, also defended his running of the club after facing calls to resign after the defeat by Bayern.

“We have a sporting crisis but not an institutional one,” he added.

“We’ve had a very negative result in the Champions League but the club is in a good place in a social and financial sense.”

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday.

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday. Koeman, who is revered by Barca fans for delivering their first European Cup as a player, will be expected to lead the club’s rebuilding work after they were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals last Friday. “If there is no change then we will announce Koeman as our next coach and he will lead this team and these players forward with a different type of project, led by a coach who all Barca fans know,” Bartomeu said in an interview with the club’s official television channel. Koeman’s imminent arrival will be the third phase of a restructuring of the club which began with Quique Setien’s sacking on Monday and continued on Tuesday as sporting director Eric Abidal agreed to terminate his contract. Koeman, 57, arrived in Barcelona on Tuesday after spending the morning at the Netherlands’ headquarters to negotiate being released from his contract with the national team, who he has coached since 2018 and led to qualify for Euro 2020. Koeman is fondly remembered at Barca for the role he played in Johan Cruyff’s hugely successful side known as the ‘Dream Team’ and for scoring the only goal against Sampdoria in the 1992 European Cup final. The defender later became the club’s assistant coach before embarking on an eventful career as a head coach, managing Dutch sides Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord plus Premier League teams Southampton and Everton and La Liga’s Valencia. “We are betting on him because we know him very well, we know how he thinks and how his teams play, but also because of his experience and as he was in Johan’s ‘Dream Team’ he knows Barca and how we understand football,” Bartomeu added. Bartomeu also said captain Messi was not about to leave the club and would be an integral part of the team under Koeman. “Messi wants to end his career at Barca, he has said that many times. I’ve spoken to Koeman about him and he has told me Messi will be the pillar of his project,” Bartomeu said. “Messi has a contract with Barca until 2021. I speak to him and his father regularly and they know that we have a solid project, that a new coach is coming and that he will count on him.” Bartomeu, who on Monday announced that the club’s presidential elections will take place in March 2021, three months earlier than planned, also defended his running of the club after facing calls to resign after the defeat by Bayern. “We have a sporting crisis but not an institutional one,” he added. “We’ve had a very negative result in the Champions League but the club is in a good place in a social and financial sense.”

Koeman will be Barca's next coach, Messi to stay - president

Barcelona on Wednesday confirmed the signing of former player Ronald Koeman as the new manager to replace Quique Setien following a humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League. Barcelona are looking to make a transition to a new phase as they sacked Setien and sporting director Eric Abidal to start the process while luring Koeman to come back to the Nou Camp.

Koeman’s contract with Barcelona will run until 2022 as the Dutchman leaves his post as the head coach of the Netherlands national team to take over the charge at the Catalan club.

Barcelona released an official statement which reads: "FC Barcelona and Ronald Koeman have reached an agreement for the Dutchman to take over as first-team coach until 30 June 2022.

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🙌 Welcome home, <a href="https://twitter.com/RonaldKoeman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonaldKoeman</a>! 
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-could-miss-champions-league-final-for-breaking-uefas-covid-19-protocol-321635" hreflang="en">Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol</a>

"The Blaugrana legend, hero of Wembley, the man who handed Barca their first-ever victory in the European Cup returns to Camp Nou.&nbsp;

"This time, however, he will do so as coach as the Dutchman brings more than 20 years of experience as a manager and eight trophies on his CV.

"Ronald Koeman comes to FC Barcelona after coaching in the Premier League, La Liga, the Dutch league, the Portuguese league and also on the international stage with the Netherlands."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/koeman-will-be-barcas-next-coach-messi-to-stay-president-321617" hreflang="en">Koeman will be Barca's next coach, Messi to stay - president</a>

Koeman reacted to his stint with the Netherlands while saying that Barcelona have always been his dream club.&nbsp;

“It was an honour to be the national coach of the Netherlands," said the 57-year-old. "For the past two-and-a-half years I have done everything I can to achieve successes with Oranje.

"I look back with pride on what we have achieved together in that period. The Dutch national team has a bright future, I am convinced of that.

"Everyone knows that Barcelona is my dream club. It feels very special to me to be able to become a coach there."

Koeman, regarded as Barcelona legend and one of the finest to have taken to the field, played for the club between 1989 and 1995 winning four league titles and the European Cup, in which he scored the winning goal in the final against Sampdoria.

The Dutchman returns to club management since leaving English club Everton in 2018 and will be looking to find the lost glory of Barcelona.

Barcelona on Wednesday confirmed the signing of former player Ronald Koeman as the new manager to replace Quique Setien following a humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League.

Barcelona on Wednesday confirmed the signing of former player Ronald Koeman as the new manager to replace Quique Setien following a humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League. Barcelona are looking to make a transition to a new phase as they sacked Setien and sporting director Eric Abidal to start the process while luring Koeman to come back to the Nou Camp. Koeman’s contract with Barcelona will run until 2022 as the Dutchman leaves his post as the head coach of the Netherlands national team to take over the charge at the Catalan club. Barcelona released an official statement which reads: "FC Barcelona and Ronald Koeman have reached an agreement for the Dutchman to take over as first-team coach until 30 June 2022. 🙌 Welcome home, @RonaldKoeman! 💙❤️ #KoemanCuler — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 19, 2020 × ALSO READ: Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol "The Blaugrana legend, hero of Wembley, the man who handed Barca their first-ever victory in the European Cup returns to Camp Nou. "This time, however, he will do so as coach as the Dutchman brings more than 20 years of experience as a manager and eight trophies on his CV. "Ronald Koeman comes to FC Barcelona after coaching in the Premier League, La Liga, the Dutch league, the Portuguese league and also on the international stage with the Netherlands." ALSO READ: Koeman will be Barca's next coach, Messi to stay - president Koeman reacted to his stint with the Netherlands while saying that Barcelona have always been his dream club. “It was an honour to be the national coach of the Netherlands," said the 57-year-old. "For the past two-and-a-half years I have done everything I can to achieve successes with Oranje. "I look back with pride on what we have achieved together in that period. The Dutch national team has a bright future, I am convinced of that. "Everyone knows that Barcelona is my dream club. It feels very special to me to be able to become a coach there." Koeman, regarded as Barcelona legend and one of the finest to have taken to the field, played for the club between 1989 and 1995 winning four league titles and the European Cup, in which he scored the winning goal in the final against Sampdoria. The Dutchman returns to club management since leaving English club Everton in 2018 and will be looking to find the lost glory of Barcelona.

Ronald Koeman appointed new Barcelona manager

Barcelona's new manager: Here's the list of top targets to succeed Quique Setien

Portugal added the inaugural <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">Nations League</a> title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday.

The Dutch defensive pairing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs</a> de Ligt largely kept Cristiano Ronaldo quiet, but Valencia winger Guedes proved the match winner as his shot had too much power for Jasper Cillessen in the Netherlands goal.

"Thank god things have gone well for the national team in recent years. Portugal has won important things like Euro 2016 and now the League of Nations," said Ronaldo.

"It may seem like an easy job but it's hard, it takes a lot of dedication and willingness. I think the players deserve to be congratulated."

Portugal had the advantage of an extra day's rest and not being forced to extra time against Switzerland in their semi-final as the Dutch were in seeing off England on Thursday.

And the hosts looked the fresher throughout with Ronald Koeman's men jaded at the end of a long season.

"If we were tired I don't know, but we were not good enough," admitted Koeman.

"They defended well and the were very compact in their game, but you have to be better with the ball and we were not."

The match had been billed as a showdown between Ronaldo and Van Dijk but with the Dutch captain again rock solid at the back, Portugal's main threat came from midfield with Bernardo Silva rightfully winning player of the tournament.

"I'm very happy, very proud. It's my first title with my country," said Silva, who also won an English domestic treble with Manchester City this season.

"Thank you to the Portuguese people, what a night for us, what a night for the country!"

Silva provided the one true moment of quality to decide the game.

He broke through the Dutch defence and then picked out Guedes, who bravely ignored playing in Ronaldo to drill a low shot past Cillessen himself.

"If you want to win you have to play well, and if Portugal won we had to play well, whether it was handsome or not," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

The Netherlands have made huge strides in just over a year since Koeman took charge after missing out on even qualifying for the last two tournaments.

After overcoming world champions France and Germany in the group stages, Koeman's men also outclassed England in the semi-finals.

However, unlike in midweek when Frenkie de Jong dominated the midfield against the English, Holland's latest Barcelona-bound star was unable to seize control of the game and their lack of a top-class striker left the Dutch toothless up front.

"We've made a lot of progress. We have to be very proud of ourselves; now disappointment is in our heads but we have to keep the heads up," said Van Dijk.

"It's been a good season but hopefully next season is going to be even better. That's the only thing I'm striving for." 
&nbsp;

Portugal added the inaugural Nations League title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday.

Portugal added the inaugural Nations League title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday. The Dutch defensive pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt largely kept Cristiano Ronaldo quiet, but Valencia winger Guedes proved the match winner as his shot had too much power for Jasper Cillessen in the Netherlands goal. "Thank god things have gone well for the national team in recent years. Portugal has won important things like Euro 2016 and now the League of Nations," said Ronaldo. "It may seem like an easy job but it's hard, it takes a lot of dedication and willingness. I think the players deserve to be congratulated." Portugal had the advantage of an extra day's rest and not being forced to extra time against Switzerland in their semi-final as the Dutch were in seeing off England on Thursday. And the hosts looked the fresher throughout with Ronald Koeman's men jaded at the end of a long season. "If we were tired I don't know, but we were not good enough," admitted Koeman. "They defended well and the were very compact in their game, but you have to be better with the ball and we were not." The match had been billed as a showdown between Ronaldo and Van Dijk but with the Dutch captain again rock solid at the back, Portugal's main threat came from midfield with Bernardo Silva rightfully winning player of the tournament. "I'm very happy, very proud. It's my first title with my country," said Silva, who also won an English domestic treble with Manchester City this season. "Thank you to the Portuguese people, what a night for us, what a night for the country!" Silva provided the one true moment of quality to decide the game. He broke through the Dutch defence and then picked out Guedes, who bravely ignored playing in Ronaldo to drill a low shot past Cillessen himself. "If you want to win you have to play well, and if Portugal won we had to play well, whether it was handsome or not," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. The Netherlands have made huge strides in just over a year since Koeman took charge after missing out on even qualifying for the last two tournaments. After overcoming world champions France and Germany in the group stages, Koeman's men also outclassed England in the semi-finals. However, unlike in midweek when Frenkie de Jong dominated the midfield against the English, Holland's latest Barcelona-bound star was unable to seize control of the game and their lack of a top-class striker left the Dutch toothless up front. "We've made a lot of progress. We have to be very proud of ourselves; now disappointment is in our heads but we have to keep the heads up," said Van Dijk. "It's been a good season but hopefully next season is going to be even better. That's the only thing I'm striving for."

Portugal edge out Netherlands, clinch Nations League title

Netherlands capitalised on two England defensive mix-ups in extra time as they came from behind to win their Nations League semi-final 3-1 on Thursday and set up a showpiece<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802"> final against Portugal</a>.

The Dutch went 2-1 ahead when defender Kyle Walker turned the ball into his own net after a mistake by team mate John Stones in the 97th minute and Quincy Promes completed the scoring in the 114th after Ross Barkley gave the ball away.

England thought they had scored in the 83rd minute when Jesse Lingard ran on to Barkley's pass to find the net but he was ruled a fraction offside after a two-minute VAR review.

The Dutch will face hosts Portugal in Sunday's final in Porto, while England were left to contemplate a fourth successive competitive semi-final defeat following their losses at the 1990 and 2018 World Cups and Euro 96.

"It was a war of attrition," said Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman. "We have beaten Germany, France and now the number four team in the world – this reflects our development. We haven't played semi-finals and finals so this is new to us but we're taking it in our stride."

It was the Dutch defence that initially went to pieces when the highly-rated Matthijs De Ligt failed to control a pass and tripped Marcus Rashford when the England forward slipped past him, giving away a penalty.

Rashford calmly sent Jasper Cillessen the wrong way from the spot in the 32nd minute.

England nearly returned the gift early in the second half when Walker was dispossessed by Memphis Depay but his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

By now, though, the Dutch were in control and, while much of their possession was unproductive, they deservedly levelled with a powerful De Ligt header in the 73rd minute as the 19-year-old atoned for his earlier mistake.

England produced what they thought might be the winner with a flowing move which started on their own goal line. The ball found Raheem Sterling, who flicked it to Barkley and he slipped it through for Lingard to score.

But, with the celebrations complete, the referee chalked it off after Lingard was shown by VAR to be centimetres ahead of the last man.

After that, it all went downhill for England.

Seven minutes into extra time, Stones dwelled on the ball on the edge of his area and was dispossessed by Depay, whose shot was brilliantly parried by Pickford.

However, the ball broke loose, Promes got there first and, although he failed to make proper contact, it hit Walker and trickled into the net.

Another England fiasco followed when Barkley's heavy touch from a pass allowed Depay to nip in and he laid the ball off for Promes to seal the deserved Dutch win.

"We made too many mistakes in our third of the pitch, partly because of that pressure and partly because of errors by us," England manager Gareth Southgate said.

"It's very painful for everybody, it's a night where we have learned so much. It was tough to take in the end because you get to another semi-final, it should be a positive but everybody leaves even more deflated."

Netherlands capitalised on two England defensive mix-ups in extra time as they came from behind to win their Nations League semi-final 3-1 on Thursday and set up a showpiece final against Portugal.

Netherlands capitalised on two England defensive mix-ups in extra time as they came from behind to win their Nations League semi-final 3-1 on Thursday and set up a showpiece final against Portugal. The Dutch went 2-1 ahead when defender Kyle Walker turned the ball into his own net after a mistake by team mate John Stones in the 97th minute and Quincy Promes completed the scoring in the 114th after Ross Barkley gave the ball away. England thought they had scored in the 83rd minute when Jesse Lingard ran on to Barkley's pass to find the net but he was ruled a fraction offside after a two-minute VAR review. The Dutch will face hosts Portugal in Sunday's final in Porto, while England were left to contemplate a fourth successive competitive semi-final defeat following their losses at the 1990 and 2018 World Cups and Euro 96. "It was a war of attrition," said Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman. "We have beaten Germany, France and now the number four team in the world – this reflects our development. We haven't played semi-finals and finals so this is new to us but we're taking it in our stride." It was the Dutch defence that initially went to pieces when the highly-rated Matthijs De Ligt failed to control a pass and tripped Marcus Rashford when the England forward slipped past him, giving away a penalty. Rashford calmly sent Jasper Cillessen the wrong way from the spot in the 32nd minute. England nearly returned the gift early in the second half when Walker was dispossessed by Memphis Depay but his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. By now, though, the Dutch were in control and, while much of their possession was unproductive, they deservedly levelled with a powerful De Ligt header in the 73rd minute as the 19-year-old atoned for his earlier mistake. England produced what they thought might be the winner with a flowing move which started on their own goal line. The ball found Raheem Sterling, who flicked it to Barkley and he slipped it through for Lingard to score. But, with the celebrations complete, the referee chalked it off after Lingard was shown by VAR to be centimetres ahead of the last man. After that, it all went downhill for England. Seven minutes into extra time, Stones dwelled on the ball on the edge of his area and was dispossessed by Depay, whose shot was brilliantly parried by Pickford. However, the ball broke loose, Promes got there first and, although he failed to make proper contact, it hit Walker and trickled into the net. Another England fiasco followed when Barkley's heavy touch from a pass allowed Depay to nip in and he laid the ball off for Promes to seal the deserved Dutch win. "We made too many mistakes in our third of the pitch, partly because of that pressure and partly because of errors by us," England manager Gareth Southgate said. "It's very painful for everybody, it's a night where we have learned so much. It was tough to take in the end because you get to another semi-final, it should be a positive but everybody leaves even more deflated."

Nations League: Netherlands enters final as England self-destruct

Ireland midfielder James McCarthy withdrew from the squad for Saturday&#39;s 2018 World Cup qualifier with Austria ending a fiery debate between national coach Martin O&#39;Neill and his Everton manager Ronald Koeman over his fitness.

Koeman blamed O&#39;Neill for giving 25-year-old McCarthy too much game time in two 2018 World Cup qualifiers last month as he had just returned from a groin operation.

O&#39;Neill said the Dutchman&#39;s claim was rubbish and accused him of &#39;bleating&#39; even though McCarthy, who has over 40 caps to his name, has only played just over an hour for Everton since the qualifiers.

However, on Monday the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) issued a statement saying he would not feature and had been joined on the sidelines by three other players.&nbsp;

&quot;Injury has ruled out Cyrus Christie, Stephen Ward, James McCarthy and Stephen Quinn from the provisional squad, while some players will be assessed by the FAI medical staff,&quot; read the statement.

Experienced defender John O&#39;Shea is one of the players being assessed and O&#39;Neill will hope he is fit as he has been hit prior to Monday by the loss of leading striker Shane Long.

Daryl Murphy, who scored the equaliser in the 2-2 draw in their opening qualifier against Serbia, is also a non-starter. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ireland, whom O&#39;Neill guided to the last 16 of Euro 2016, are presently level on seven points with table-topping Serbia as the Irish bid to reach their first World Cup finals since 2002.

(AFP)

It ended a fiery debate between national coach Martin O'Neill and his Everton manager Ronald Koeman over McCarthy's fitness

Ireland midfielder James McCarthy withdrew from the squad for Saturday's 2018 World Cup qualifier with Austria ending a fiery debate between national coach Martin O'Neill and his Everton manager Ronald Koeman over his fitness. Koeman blamed O'Neill for giving 25-year-old McCarthy too much game time in two 2018 World Cup qualifiers last month as he had just returned from a groin operation. O'Neill said the Dutchman's claim was rubbish and accused him of 'bleating' even though McCarthy, who has over 40 caps to his name, has only played just over an hour for Everton since the qualifiers. However, on Monday the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) issued a statement saying he would not feature and had been joined on the sidelines by three other players. "Injury has ruled out Cyrus Christie, Stephen Ward, James McCarthy and Stephen Quinn from the provisional squad, while some players will be assessed by the FAI medical staff," read the statement. Experienced defender John O'Shea is one of the players being assessed and O'Neill will hope he is fit as he has been hit prior to Monday by the loss of leading striker Shane Long. Daryl Murphy, who scored the equaliser in the 2-2 draw in their opening qualifier against Serbia, is also a non-starter. Ireland, whom O'Neill guided to the last 16 of Euro 2016, are presently level on seven points with table-topping Serbia as the Irish bid to reach their first World Cup finals since 2002. (AFP)

Midfielder James McCarthy pulls out of Irish World Cup qualifier

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