MADRID: Ronald Koeman said on Saturday it was impossible for him to be under pressure more as Barcelona preparing to face Real Madrid in the first Clasico this season.
Koeman seems to be on the verge of losing his job earlier this month after Barca won only once in six matches.
But club President Joan Laporta moved to end speculation by insisting Koeman “deserves benefits from doubts” and will remain as coach.
“I don’t think it might be under more pressure,” Koeman said on the night press conference.
“As Barcelona coach, you have to accept it, it doesn’t matter.
I know the importance of a Clasico.” Asked whether he still felt the support of the club, said Koeman smiled: “I have to answer every game if it’s the problem.
I think I am a Barcelona coach now, tomorrow let’s calm down.
I feel supported by the club but I know.
Everything depends on the results.” Barcelona sat seventh in La Liga after winning their four eight matches, but they were only two points behind Real Madrid.
“This game will not determine,” Koeman said.
“It will only show a moment like what the two teams are.” After defeating Valencia in La Liga and Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League, the victory at Camp Nou on Sunday will equip the encouraging week for Koeman and his team.
But many who believe Madrid is a favorite.
“We know exactly what we have, and what we have to do,” Koeman said.
“I have no fear.” Jordi Alba was trained on Saturday and was ready to play, despite suffering from small ankle problems in the middle of the week.
Ansu Fati is expected to begin after starting on the bench against Dynamo, with Koeman managing the 18-year-old minutes after he recovered from a serious knee injury.
“We must remain calm so he can fully recover,” Koeman said.
“Ansu can’t do it myself, he is part of the team but he is a player who can make a difference.”