Umtiti bashes journalist: I have space in my car

Samuel Umtiti has cut a comical figure in recent weeks in more ways than one. His future at Barcelona remains under constant scrutiny and if reports are to be believed, he is at odds with the club, as they seem to be running out of patience with his unwillingness to seek a move away.

 He has also endured the outrage of fans who are frustrated with the lack of quality he has demonstrated on the pitch, his injury-prone nature and the amount of money he is draining due to his rather massive wage. 

Barcelona have tried to seek a transfer for him on multiple occasions, with the World Cup winner attracting interest from a few Ligue One sides despite his track record of injuries since 2018. Umtiti, however, remains adamant on staying and wanting to prove himself to the coaches and the fans. 

The whistles directed towards the Frenchman after the Joan Gamper game against Juventus were a clear indication of the fans’ stance on whether he should stay or leave. Yet, with the summer transfer window almost at its end, there looks to be no sign of a departure for Umtiti.

Upon arrival in Barcelona from Ibiza, journalist Maria Garridos asked the defender if he had a place in the team. Umtiti responded with a snide comment to her, saying “I have place in my car,” seemingly inviting her to accompany him, but also making a frustrated retort to save face. 

The centre-back is perhaps reasonably tired of all the criticism he has endured in recent weeks, and maybe also an indication that he wishes to continue at Barça and nothing else.