FCBARCELONA.CAT

31.05.2010 13:35

Oliver insists Ibra not for sale

Roger Bogunyà

FCB general manager, Joan Oliver, reminded reporters on Monday that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is not for sale and expressed his displeasure at recent statements made by the Swedish striker’s agent, Mino Raiola.

Las week, Mino Raiola shocked many Barca fans saying that it would be “very strange” if Guardiola did not count on his client for the coming season: “If he thought that, Guardiola would have to go to a mental hospital. If Barca needs money why do they always talk about Ibrahimovic and not Messi, Pedro or another player?”

A response to these unfortunate words was quick in coming. Mr Oliver told reporters today: “We didn’t like Mr Mino Raiola’s statements at all, especially the tone. The reference to the coach is in very bad taste. And the Club doesn’t need money. We don’t want to sell”.

However, he emphasized: “If things get too complicated, there’ll be no option but to sell the player. However, that’s not the intention of the Club at this moment”.

Touré Yaya

Mr Oliver also spoke about Touré Yaya: "His case is similar to Ibrahimovic, although Touré has been with the Club for longer. We are not interested in offloading either of these players but obviously if Touré isn’t happy we won’t force him to stay”.

"What we won’t do is go against our own interests. If he wants to stay we’ll be delighted. If not then the solution must be good for the Club, not just the player”.