Ronald Koeman once again asked about Barcelona starlet

The Barcelona manager fielded more questions about the young midfielder.

Barcelona manager held his customary press conference ahead of their match against Real Sociedad. The topic of Riqui Puig was once again at the forefront.

The Dutchman was asked about Puig’s lack of playing time and he made it a point to stress that he was not the only player on the squad who are not playing as much as they would like.

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"“I don’t know, there’s a certain interest from part of the press because he is a homegrown player, but there are also other players who do not play and look for support from the manager and the press,” Koeman said.“We are a strong squad where only eleven can play and the manager decides on the attitude, the games, the work and the training of a player. There are other players, but that is not my problem because I don’t ask about these things.”Source: Sport"

In a way, Koeman attempted to downplay the lack of playing time for Puig by bringing up that there are others who also want to play more. While he didn’t mention names, Miralem Pjanic was another player who went public about his scarce playing time prior to the team’s Champions League match against Juventus.

The questions about the young midfielder also come after a report claimed that Koeman had a dust up with Puig in which he called him a “leaker.” Koeman accused him of leaking details about the conversation he had with the player about needing to go out on loan as he did not count on him.

These types of questions by the press are going to continue if Barcelona do not start playing better. In their loss to Juventus, one of the bright spots was Puig and his performance when he was brought on.

Many were assuming, or hoping, that his performance would see him earn a start against Levante. That was not the case. He was an unused substitute. With the player being adamant that he wants to stay and change Koeman’s mind, his presence will remain looming over the manager until he starts playing more.