Laporta says "don't rule out" Barça's Koeman but doesn't back him either
The Dutchman wants to remain in charge next season but no decision has been made yet
Joan Laporta says not to rule Ronald Koeman out of being Barcelona's coach next season but confirmed the club are in a period of reflection.
"Koeman has one more year on his deal and the peace of mind that there's no need to rush things," Laporta said Friday. "We're negotiating, talking and evaluating everything. Things are on track. We don't want to leave anything to be talked about. We want to work hard on a shared model.
"We will have to see if Koeman is in the dynamic we want. His attitude has been ipeccable. We're close on many things.
"The relationship is very good. It's of respect, admiration and we talk clearly. He's expressed a desire to continue and we're in a period of reflection. If we end up deciding we have the shame ideas of the project, things will work."
Laporta also said that once he's reached a final decision, Koeman will be the first to know.
Xavi Hernández
Asked if Xavi Hernandez could replace Koeman, Laporta said: "We owe respect to Koeman, who has a contract with us. Don't rule him out. Other names that are being linked, seem fine to me, because everyone wants to come (to Barça)... but we have a coach and it's necessary to talk and take a period to reflect."
