'More important than signing Nico Williams' - Ronald Koeman blames Barcelona's downfall on treatment of legends 'like Lionel Messi, Xavi and me' but reveals dream of returning to Spanish club

Koeman, a Barcelona legend in his own right, recently claimed that he would love to return to the club in future but not in the capacity of a manager. The Dutch coach wants to reunite with his beloved club to help young players improve their technique.

However, the 61-year-old is unlikely to return to the Blaugrana while president Joan Laporta remains in charge of the club as it was under the current chief's tenure that Koeman was shown the door as Barcelona boss in 2021.

However, Koeman remains critical of the Camp Nou side and feels that their mistreatment of legends such as himself, Xavi and Lionel Messi is to blame for their recent struggles, suggesting changing that mentality is more important than pursuing top players, such as Spain star Nico Williams.

Speaking to reporters, the Dutch coach said: "I have a dream to return to Barcelona, but it won't be as a coach. I want to help players improve their technique. Barca's problem in recent years has been that people like Lionel Messi, Xavi and me have left. It is better to respect the club legends. That is more important than competing for players like Nico Williams."

Hansi Flick and his boys will travel to the United States next week where they are set to face arch-rivals Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan in friendly matches.