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BARCELONA

Barcelona's Koeman on Nagelsmann speculation: "That's a matter for the media"

As he waits to hold talks with Joan Laporta, Ronald Koeman has made clear rumours over his future are "a matter for the media".

Update:
Barcelona's Koeman on Nagelsmann speculation: "That's a matter for the media"
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Ronald Koeman insists he is not interested in media speculation about his future at Barcelona as he waits to hold in-depth talks with new president Joan Laporta

Barça bowed out of the Champions League last week, going out in the last 16 to Paris Saint-Germain, but still remain firmly in the hunt in LaLiga, having clawed their way back into the title race with a 16-game unbeaten run. The excellent domestic form has eased the pressure on Koeman, though a recent report in Spain suggested Julian Nagelsmann was being lined up to replace the Dutchman at Camp Nou. 

Nagelsmann plays down Barcelona links

RB Leipzig boss Nagelsmann, who has also been linked with Bayern Munich, made clear on Friday it would be disrespectful to discuss such matters, stating: "There are great coaches at all of these clubs and they have a contract, just as I do. It is not annoying me, nor is it flattering me." 

Likewise, Koeman's focus is on helping Barcelona continue to get better this season, rather than worrying about stories in the press. "It was a very good reaction, but I don't have to answer the names of players or coaches that a journalist produced," the Barça boss said ahead of Monday's LaLiga game against Huesca. "That is a matter for the media. You have to fill the pages every day. I have a contract. We are improving many things and we have to continue."

Koeman revealed he had a conversation with Laporta - who was elected for a second stint as president last Sunday - prior to the second leg against PSG in the French capital. However, he expects the pair to have more detailed discussions once their schedules allow.  "I have not spoken with the president yet because there are many games and it must be official that he is president," the Dutch coach said. "We spoke in Paris, but we have to meet later. These are not things to explain outside, but from within the club." 

Koeman responds to Jordi Cruyff rumours

Jordi Cruyff - son of club legend Johan, who is currently coaching in China - has been linked with becoming part of a new-look board at Barça. "I cannot say much because they are things that exist within the club, the president has to decide his team in important positions," Koeman replied when asked about his compatriot returning to Camp Nou. I know Jordi well, as well as his family. He may be a candidate, but I have not discussed this issue."