Published 12:29 IST, July 1st 2020
Setien admits difficult to play Griezmann without destabilising Barcelona post Atleti draw
Barcelona manager Quique Setien has admitted that it is difficult to play Antoine Griezmann without destabilising the team, after draw against Atletico Madrid.
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Lionel Messi's Barcelona slipped up once again in ir quest to clinch LaLiga after y were held to a 2-2 draw by Atletico Madrid. This was Barcelona's second conservative draw, and third since resumption of LaLiga post coronavirus lockdown. Barcelona's previous summer's big-money signing Antoine Griezmann was introduced into game only in 90th minute, casting doubts over his future. w, manr Quique Setien has spoken on issue with French superstar.
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Impossible to play Griezmann without destabilising team: Setien
Setien decided to start trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Riqui Puig, with Griezmann languishing on bench against his former club Atletico Madrid. €120 million ($135 million) signing was introduced only in final minute of game, with Setien admitting that it is 'impossible' to play Griezmann without destabilising Barcelona lineup.
Setien said that he was well aware that Griezmann would be upset about lack of game time against his former club. manr said he felt bad for 2018 World Cup winner but added that he feels Griezmann would understand tactical aspects, addressing him as a great person professionally.
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Messi fails to nullify Real Madrid LaLiga lead
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid clash was marred by several controversies, coupled with three penalties and an own goal. While Diego Costa's own goal and Lionel Messi's penalty made it 2 goals for Barcelona, Saul Niguez scored twice from spot to salv a draw at Camp u. This was Messi's 700th professional goal, although he could t help his side overtake Real Madrid LaLiga lead.
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re were reports suggesting that Setien might be sacked if Barcelona lost any furr points against Atletico Madrid. manr, however, asserted that he felt threat to his job at moment, but went on to concede that losing points in every game will push m away from LaLiga glory.
Also Read | Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann involved in training ground brawl, Barca boss intervenes
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Messi and Setien t on good terms
After draw against Celta Vigo, reports surfaced claiming that Messi and Setien were involved in an altercation during training, with some players questioning former Real Betis manr's tactics. It was reported that Messi and Setien are t on good terms, with six-time Ballon d'Or winner having demanded appointment of club legend Xavi as new manr.
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Im courtesy: AP, FCBarcelona.com
12:29 IST, July 1st 2020