Quique Setien Admits Antoine Griezmann Is 'Destabilising' - Diego Simeone Left Speechless

Barcelona coach Quique Setien made the startling admission that Antoine Griezmann has a 'destabilising' effect on the team following the Catalan giants' 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid, and his decision to bench the Frenchman left opposing boss Diego Simeone 'without words.'

The 29-year-old was only a substitute for the big clash against his former side Atleti, and he was limited to a final minute cameo by the Blaugrana boss.

And speaking about Griezmann's place in the team after the 2-2 draw, Setien admitted that the Frenchman can unbalance the rest of the team, casting huge doubts over his future at Camp Nou.

"It's difficult to put him on without destabilising the team," Setien said, as cited by AS.

"I understand it's tough for Griezmann to come on when so little time left. I will speak with him tomorrow [Wednesday], I won't say sorry because [it's about] decisions.

"But I understand he may feel bad and I feel bad for him because he's a great person and professional."

And although Griezmann may have been left bemused by Setien's decision, he was certainly not the only one. Sport reports that Argentinian coach Diego Simeone said he had 'no words' for his former star's omission from the starting lineup, which many have interpreted as a stance of support for the ex-Atleti man.

But Simeone is known for using this expression when aiming to stay away from controversy, so he may simply be attempting to avoid any conflict. It doesn't really sound like him though, does it?

For Griezmann, Tuesday's disappointment will only add to a season of struggles. The forward arrived from los Colchoneros in last summer's transfer window, and much was expected of the big-money signing.

A measly return of eight goals and four assists in La Liga only support Setien's concerns however, that the France international doesn't match Barça's current philosophy.