Koeman: “They wanted to hurt Messi”

Ronald Koeman answered few questions about the important victory against Athletic at the Camp Nou (2-1), which places the team for the first time this season in second position in the table, as the shock over the publication of Leo's contract Messi in the newspaper El Mundo focused a good part of the press conference.

Satisfied with the win?

Yes. We have increased our confidence, with a great first half, where we should have gone to halftime with one more goal and not with such a short result. We did very good pressure and we were very good with the positional game. The second half was something else, especially in the air game. We have known how to react to their goal. We already know that Athletic always puts a lot of danger with crosses and in stopped play, but this time we have shown that we know how to suffer. We have been able to defend the result and we have been justly deserving of the victory.

Was victory also important to move up the table?

It is important to be seconds. We always want to be at the top of the table. It has been a very complicated month, with many games and trips, with three competitions. We have improved in concentration and we have managed to carry it out.

Have you talked to Messi about the contract publication?

Very bad intention. Hurting a player who has done something very great for Spanish football and for Barcelona. He is a born winner. He knows how to overcome all circumstances. He had no doubt that it would not affect him.

Will it affect Leo's future?

I dont know. You have to try to know how this has come out in the press. They are things that come out, that cannot come out. There are people who are interested in hurting Messi and Barça.

What do you think Messi is related to the ruin of Barça?

I do not get it. You have to look at what Messi has done at this club. He has been proving everything for years and helping this club to make it big and win important titles. This is the important thing, the rest is nonsense.

Do you think this is a leak from the club?

If it is someone within the club it is something very bad. Whoever has leaked this cannot have a future in this club.

How do you rate Dembélé's performance?

He is an important player for his speed and depth. He helps us in his game to look for Pedri and Messi between the lines.