Koeman angered by criticism

RONALD KOEMAN raised a passionate defence of the job he has done as Barcelona coach yesterday, amid speculation the Dutchman will not be in charge next season.

Koeman confirmed he met with the club’s president Joan Laporta this week but was unable to say he was given assurances about his future.

“I cannot explain very much,” said Koeman in a press conference. “We have spoken about Barca, the team, the season, the last few results and we agreed to speak again at the end of the season.”

Koeman appeared sceptical about the backing he received and irritated by criticism in the media after one win in four games has left Barca’s La Liga title hopes hanging by a thread.

Asked if he feels mistreated by recent criticism, Koeman said: “Yes a little bit, yes, in the last two weeks.” He added: “If I heard the media in the last few days, it looks like we did a really bad job and I don’t agree.”

Barcelona have already won the Copa del Rey and looked ready to claim a domestic double before defeat at home to Granada and a draw away at Levante left them on the fringes of the title race.

If Atletico Madrid beat Osasuna overnight, Barca will be out of the running, regardless of their result at home to Celta Vigo.

“It’s important to analyse the whole season. You have to realise what we came into, how the team was and what has been achieved this season, in spite of the difficulties we had.

“We are disappointed because of the moments when we could have gone top of La Liga. We didn’t do it but for any coach the important thing is to be able to work at a club that has absolute confidence in you. That is the most important thing. I can and I want to continue.

“To criticise and say that in one moment things have been perfect and then two weeks later, everything is horrible, I don’t think that’s fair,” Koeman said.– AFP