Topics: Ronald Koeman, Barcelona, Cadiz, La Liga
The Dutch coach made the headlines due to his eye-catching press conference amid speculation surrounding his future.

It would be an understatement to say Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman is under pressure. However, on Wednesday, a day before their midweek clash with Cadiz, the Dutch tactician held a strange press conference which many have interpreted as his farewell speech to the fans.

The 58-year-old head coach has long been linked with an exit. After the Blaugrana's disastrous collapse last season, club president Joan Laporta was said to have been keen on sacking the Dutchman only to give him one last chance due to the Catalan giants' horrible financial crisis.

However, Barcelona's last two results – the 3-0 defeat and last-gasp draw at home to Bayern Munich and Granada – has sparked a change in stance, with the Camp Nou board having reportedly begun the search for his replacement.

Everything reached a boiling point in Wednesday's press conference as Koeman faced the eager media. However, instead of answering questions regarding his future like he has been for quite a few weeks now, the Dutchman refused to accept questions. Instead, he read a brief pre-written statement before walking out. 

"The club is with me in a situation of rebuilding. The economic situation is linked to the situation on the pitch," the iconic former defender said.

"We as a staff have to rebuild the team without making big investments and that takes time. The young talents can be world stars in a couple of years. The youngsters will have opportunities, like Xavi [Hernandez] and [Andres] Iniesta had, but patience is required.

"Besides, to finish high in the league table would be a success. In the Champions League, no miracles can be expected. The defeat against Bayern [Munich] must be seen in that light.

"The team must be supported, in words and actions. I know that the press recognizes this process, it is not the first time in history that this has happened.

"We count on your support in these decisive times. We are very, very happy with the support of the fans, as was the case against Granada. Come on, Barcelona!"

Some have interpreted this strange press conference as a parting message from a head coach staring at his inevitable dismissal. Whether the decision to sack him has been made is unclear but a few names are already being linked with the Camp Nou seat, including Ajax's Ten Hag, the Belgium national team's Roberto Martinez, Al Sadd boss and club legend Xavi, and Joachim Low.