Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman sensationally avoided questions and instead read a pre-prepared statement in a bizarre press conference. The Dutchman has been placed under increased pressure to turn around the LaLiga giants’ fortunes.
Koeman has endured a difficult period at Barca and sections of the club’s fanbase have demanded that he be dismissed.
The Catalan club have experienced a particularly difficult week. A comfortable 3-0 Champions League defeat by Bayern Munich was a poor start to their European campaign.
Barca then needed a late Ronald Araujo goal to clinch a draw against winless Granada.
It has been widely reported that Koeman is on borrowed time at the Camp Nou. There have been several suggestions that president Laporta has already drawn up a list of potential candidates.
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“In the Champions League we cannot hope for miracles. The defeat against Bayern Munich last week has to be focused on that perspective.
“The process that we’re in right now, the staff and the team deserve unconditional support in word and in actions – the support of the technical staff.
“I understand the press recognise this process. It is not the first time in FC Barcelona’s history that this has happened.
“Us and the players are very happy with the great support like we had in the match at home against Granada. Thank you.”
Koeman has history for bringing statements to press conferences.
As Everton manager in 2017, he read pre-prepared words criticising then-Republic of Ireland boss Martin O’Neill for using James McCarthy despite Koeman being of the belief that the midfielder had an injury.