Koeman has come under increasing pressure after a poor run of form for Barcelona, who find themselves bottom of their Champions League group.
By JACOB LEEKS
Ronald Koeman has provided a half-hearted response to rumours linking him with the sack at Barcelona. The Dutchman has come under increasing pressure for a run of poor results for the Catalan giants, with a Champions League defeat to Benfica being the latest low point.
Barca were humiliated in Portugal, with the hosts running out comfortable 3-0 winners and Koeman’s side seeing Eric Garica sent off.
Koeman’s post is becoming increasingly untenable, with club president Joan Laporta recently launching a war of words with his manager.
Roberto Martinez and Xavi are the two favourites to replace him, though Koeman has remained defiant in the face of the increasing pressure.
Despite the defeat to Benfica, which leaves them bottom of their Champions League group, Koeman is still in his post.
His task shows no sign of getting easier, with Barca’s next outing being a visit to reigning La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona are currently sixth in the Spanish top-flight, having won three and drawn three of their opening games.
And Koeman insists that he will remain at the club, revealing he did not speak to Laporta ahead of his pre-match press conference on Friday morning.
“I’m still staying, yes,” he laughed in response to one question about his future.
“I know that it always depends on the results; it is the most normal thing. My intention is to follow the plan. The club has not told me anything.
