Setien reveals emotional reaction to witnessing Dembele in training after Barca return

February 1, 2020 By Ali M.

Topics: Ousmane Dembele, Quique Setien, Barcelona, La Liga

The Frenchman has returned to training after being sidelined after yet another hamstring issue.

One of the biggest hurdles for Quique Setien upon being appointed as Barcelona coach was injuries, especially in attack, with the absence of Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele limiting the tactician’s options. Fortunately, the latter has returned to training and has been able to show the new boss what he is worth.

Speaking ahead of their league clash with Levante, Setien revealed his first thoughts on the Frenchman after seeing him in training. The former Dortmund ace has been accused of lacking discipline and professionalism but Quique insists that on the training ground, that’s far from the case.

The Blaugrana boss admitted that the World Cup winner has room to grow but the dedication and intensity he brings is undeniable, arguing that it brought him to tears. He told Sport:

"With Dembele, we have not yet spoken. Like most, he has things he can improve on.

"You have to keep in mind that they are still young kids. Their dedication, from what I have seen, is total and absolute. I have tears when I see the capacity and intensity in which he works."

Another criticism of Dembele since his mega-money move is his constant injuries and inconsistency. The 22-year-old has been limited to only nine appearances this season so far due to a reoccurring hamstring issue but his return will be a welcomed one.

With Suarez on the sidelines and the board failing to sign Rodrigo from Valencia, his return is nothing but impressive. Setien even hailed the Frenchman’s recovery as a new signing.

"We are delighted with Dembele. He can be the winter signing," Quique said. "You never know how things happen and we always think positively. It's clear that his recovery will come in handy."

With league leaders Real Madrid facing Atletico in a highly-anticipated Madrid Derby on Saturday, Barcelona could return to the top of the table if Los Blancos suffer a defeat. Nonetheless, the Blaugrana will need to bounce back from that 2-0 at Valencia and beat Levante if they wish to avoid losing further ground in their title defense.