Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has accused club president Joan Laporta of a lack of respect amid persistent speculation regarding his future.
The Dutch-man has secured a Copa del Rey title in his first season at the helm, but the team’s pursuits of a Champions League crown and La Liga title both ended in failure.
Thus, Laporta has affirmed that “several decisions” must be made as the club look to challenge for honours next term, and the 58-year-old is reportedly considering sacking Koeman given their underwhelming season.
Laporta’s comments have not gone down well with Koeman, though, with the Dutchman telling reporters: “You need to respect your coach and players more.
“In the last part of the season I’ve not felt the support of the club. Things have come out in the press. They don’t deserve that kind of treatment, things should be done differently.
“I know there’s a lot of pressure here and I accept this, but sometimes I think in this country there’s much more of a culture with the media getting involved with a coach’s future, which I think is disrespectful.
“I don’t know if I will continue as coach, to be honest. I’ve not spoken with the president. I know we need to make changes in order to win trophies and if that means a new coach or players then fine; but it needs to be communicated.”
Barcelona cannot finish higher than third in La Liga as they prepare for a final-day clash with Eibar, and the club have been tipped to welcome legendary midfielder Xavi back to Camp Nou as Koeman’s successor.
