La Liga news: Ronald Koeman issues statement on Barcelona future

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Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman caused more controversy after he refused to answer questions before walking out of a press conference

The under-pressure Barca head coach delivered a short, pre-prepared statement before leaving. This pressure recently increased after a poor Barca performance against Granada CF.

Koeman's statement in full

Hello everyone. The club with me as coach is in a situation of rebuilding.

The financial situation of the club is connected to the sporting activities and vice versa. This means we as a team have to rebuild the team without being able to make any big financial investments. This needs time.

The young talent today could be the next big world stars in just a few years. To rebuild this team, young players will be given opportunities like Xavi and Iniesta had in their day. But we must ask for patience.

Achieving a high ranking in La Liga is a great success. In the Champions League, we can't hope for miracles. The defeat by Bayern Munich last week has to be analysed with that perspective.

The process we're in now with the staff and the team deserves unconditional support, in words and actions. I know the press recognises this process.

It's not the first time in Barcelona's history this has happened. We count on your support in these difficult times.

As staff and players, we are very happy with the great support of the fans, like we had in the match against Granada. Visca Barca, thanks to everyone.

Koeman's statement came a day after Laporta addressed Barcelona supporters on Twitter with a video message. This is a rough translation of the text posted alongside the video: "Thanks for cheering on the team, culers. I ask you to continue to do so as before. We know what needs to be done to fix the situation. We are Barça.

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