Koeman talks Pjanic, Umtiti, Fati ahead of the game against Getafe

Barcelona will welcome Getafe to the Camp Nou tomorrow for the third gameweek of La Liga as they hope to send their players for the international break with a win. Ahead of the clash, coach Ronald Koeman addressed the media, and addressing a bunch of doubts that are common with the fanbase as well.

“I respect all of the players that have a contract. However, the club know what I want. They know it will be difficult to have minutes,” he said when asked about Samuel Umtiti’s inclusion in the squad list.

Koeman also talked about their mis-managed squad, primarily due to quantity, saying “We currently have 32 players. How is that possible? How can I manage 32 players? I did my coaching course, but never with 32 players. Every player knows their situation, and some will have few minutes.”

Ronald Araujo has been called up to represent Uruguay, but Koeman has some strong thoughts on the same: “I don’t think Araújo should be called up with his national team. We know that the schedule in South America is completely different, but they should know our situation. In the end, we (the club) pay their salaries.”

With Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid closing in, the Dutchman was asked whether he was worried, “No. If they have the money to sign him, then so be it. I would like to do it too.”

Despite rumours about Ansu Fati making a return against Sevilla, Koeman brushed any doubt away saying, “I saw the press saying Ansu Fati would be available for the Sevilla game. But no, I can confirm he won’t play. He is doing well, but we don’t want to rush his recovery nor take any risks.”

Miralem Pjanic has also been included in the squad for the game even though he has been linked with a move away. On that, Koeman said, “Pjanic is working hard to find a new club. He will have to make an effort. However, I know that he is still committed with us.”

“Collado knows that there is a lot of competition in his position and he’s going to have to look for a chance to play,” Koeman said when asked about the fan-favourite winger.

Source: BarçaTV+