Barcelona's decision to sack Ernesto Valverde keeps making headlines even after six weeks, and this time, one of those men that was ready to take over for the Spaniard boss has come clean about how close he was to sign a deal with Los Blaugranas.
Speaking in his capacity as the Netherlands' head coach, former Barcelona legend and center back Ronald Koeman discussed how he talked with Eric Abidal to take over as Barca boss in January and the reasons to snub such a career-changing gig.
"Oh yes, they called me a few weeks ago. I said 'no' to Barcelona because I have a contract with the Dutch National Team. It just wasn't the right moment," Koeman said.
The former Everton reportedly has a clause in his contract with the Oranje side which could pave the way for his early exit, but it can only be triggered after the 2020 UEFA Euro. That "it just wasn't the right moment" quote seems to be a way to keep his options open if things don't work out for Quique Setién in the next few months and Barcelona is forced to search for more options.
Koeman also discussed his surprise when it comes to Frenkie De Jong's role with Los Blaugranas, while also trying to look at the bright side of his first year at Camp Nou.
"The good thing is that he is playing a lot of games, but he is playing a role he is not used to. He didn't play in that role for Ajax and he is not doing so with us, but his coach gets to make those calls," Koeman added.
