Koeman's Barcelona future: Sack claims, new manager search, agent's response

Ronald Koeman could yet remain at Barcelona despite speculation linking him with the exit door.

The Dutchman has just finished his first campaign in charge at the Nou Camp having taken over from Quique Setien last summer.

He had to deal with the fallout of Lionel Messi's attempted departure as well as the financial restrictions placed upon him.

Koeman delivered the Copa del Rey but finished third in La Liga, a showing that led to criticism from newly elected president Joan Laporta, who has returned to power.

The Barcelona chief suggested that changes were incoming with the current manager set to make way.

He said at a Diario Sport event: "A cycle has come to an end and we are working on a renewal process.

"From next week, you will see several decisions which must be taken. We have to work hard to build a competitive team to win league titles and Champions Leagues."

But Koeman's agent Rob Jansen told Què T'hi Jugues that he expects his client will continue for at least another year.

He said: "In my opinion, Koeman will stay at Barca."

Laporta though has made it clear to the current Catalans boss that he is on the look out for his successor.

Xavi, a former Pep Guardiola pupil, has been touted as the next Barcelona coach given his history with the club.

García Pimienta, currently in charge of Barcelona B, has also been shortlisted as a potential target.

Koeman will only remain in the dugout if Laporta cannot come to an agreement with a new coach, reports tv3.

The Dutchman, himself a player in the club's Johan Cruyff-led Dream Team, has come out fighting recently insisting that he was deserving of more respect.

Does Ronald Koeman deserve another year as Barcelona boss? Comment below

He said: "You need to respect your coach and players more. In the last part of the season I've not felt the support of the club.

"We've not spoken about the future. There's been times when I've had to be a spokesman for the club and that should be noted."

Koeman added: "Things have come out in the press. They don't deserve that kind of treatment, things should be done differently.

"I know there's a lot of pressure here and I accept this, but sometimes I think in this country there's much more of a culture with the media getting involved with a coach's future, which I think is disrespectful."