Ronald Koeman reveals talks with Joan Laporta over Barcelona future
Ronald Koeman says he wants to stay at Barcelona next season and has already held talks with club president Joan Laporta to that end.
But the manager admits he feels 'mistreated' by some corners of the media who he claims have unfairly criticised Barça for their recent form.
Koeman's future is under consideration by the club hierarchy after the last two weeks all-but ended their La Liga title hopes. They've won just one game in their last four, leaving them with ground to make up on both Madrid clubs with two games left to go.
A 3-3 draw with Levante did little to ease concerns, and he was asked about talks with Laporta ahead of their clash with Celta Vigo - which could prove redundant if Atletico beat Osasuna and maintain their four-point gap.
"I can't explain much," Koeman said. "We talked about the team, the season and recent results. We've arranged to meet again after the season.
"I want to stay; I am happy and I see a lot of room to improve things. It's a path that doesn't end this season. In my opinion, there are a lot of positives. You can't say two weeks ago everything is perfect and now it's all terrible. That's not fair. [Laporta] will have the final say but I am relaxed."
Koeman won the Copa del Rey with Barça earlier this season which is proving to be his only saving grace after their last 16 exit from the Champions League. He went on to say he feels he has been unfairly treated at times in recent weeks - but says he has the full support of the players to continue next season.
He said: "I feel a little bit mistreated in the last two weeks.
"If you analyse a season, you must analyse the changes to the team, the young players, that we won the cup, that we had 13 points fewer in December and we're still fighting for the league - even if it's a small possibility.
"That's what you need to analyse. And if I heard the media in the last few days, it looks like we did a really bad job and I don't agree.
"I feel supported by the players and the team has a big future. If we can sign what we think we lack to take the next step, I think we can be very excited about the team next season."