Koeman acknowledges that Messi felt anger against Bartomeu

Ronald Koeman has stated in an interview with the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that Messi's anger with Josep Maria Bartomeu was something that was noticeable in his day-to-day work, But that did not influence his relationship with the Argentine, who he says he always behaved with the utmost professionalism.

Is there no other option but to win in Valencia?

We have to improve defensively, we cannot concede two goals like against Granada. You have to be more focused and close spaces. We expect a difficult game in which we have to be effective and be better behind.

What have you felt in the locker room?

We were very disappointed to lose this opportunity, but it shows that nothing is easy. There is no time to be sad. We keep fighting and we have to improve.

How has the sanction fitted?

We are going to appeal because it is an exaggerated sanction for saying “what a character”. If you really insult, you lose 20 games. We disagre. Looking ahead to the game, I trust the technical staff.

What self-criticism do you make about the Granada party?

You are always responsible. There's the line-up, the changes… I don't know what else to say. I am sure that if we win five games we will be champions.

Is it in the hands of the veterans you spoke to at the beginning of the session?

They know the pressure of these situations. I need people like that to help young people. For some it is the first opportunity to win something big with this club.

Are you surprised that those above fail so much?

It must be recognized that it is a strong championship with very good teams. There are four teams at three points. The greats have many games and we have more injuries and if you are not focused it pays dearly.

Do you notice physical downturns in the team at the end of the games?

I disagree. We are well physically. What we lack is sentencing when we get ahead. There are many games in which we were better in the final minutes.

To plan next season, do you think of a three-center or four-defense scheme?

I'm not going to talk about next season. It's a good question, but it's not for today.

Why was Umtiti starting against Granada?

A technical decision. We changed two players because Pedri needed a break and Umtiti was training well. You don't have to pay too much attention to changes.

Who will give instructions in the field tomorrow?

I have to see first what is possible and what is not. I'll talk to Naval. I don't know if you can still have contact.

Was there more failure in attack or defense in Granada?

When you think that you are much superior, you run the risk of de-centering behind. We had to occupy better positions in defense.

Have you had to do a lot of pedagogy before this game?

It is crucial for us, like those of Madrid or Atlético or Sevilla. You have to win after a major defeat.

Are the players lacking confidence in you?

I don't know why you ask me this. We all want the best for the club and we don't get nervous about this. I always talk to the captains.