'It's not true!' - Koeman insists he only wants loan move for Riqui Puig

Ronald Koeman denied claims he told Riqui Puig that there is no future for him at Barcelona and insists he only recommended a loan move.

A bombshell report from Catalan radio station RAC1 claimed Puig became the latest victim of Koeman’s reshuffle at Barcelona, leaving fans utterly shocked and saddened at the prospect of losing a promising La Masia youngster.

It was alleged that the Blaugrana coach informed Puig that he had no role in his plans at Camp Nou. Thus, the 21-year-old had to begin a frantic search for a new club before LaLiga’s transfer window shuts on October 5.

Fueling the rumor was his omission from the club’s 1-0 win over Elche during Saturday’s Joan Gamper Trophy match.

But Koeman has now set the record straight, insisting he only advised the young midfielder to consider a loan move to aid his development as a footballer.

“It’s not true that [Riqui Puig] is not in our plans,” said the Dutchman as quoted on Marca. “I spoke to him yesterday. I speak to the young players – they have to play. They can’t not be playing.

Say no to get #RiquiPuig out#RiquiNoSeToca
He is the future pic.twitter.com/UPOw4P66Tz

— Firas Abu Ahmed (@abuahmed2789) September 19, 2020

“Him, [Carles] Alena, Pedri…I’ve told them that it’s difficult for them and there’s lots of competition. Nothing more.

“I’ve told [Riqui Puig] that he has a future here, but it depends on the player. I’d recommend that he went out on loan. At 20 years of age, the young players have to play. They can’t get stuck for a period of time.”

Puig has been associated with Barcelona for seven years already, having joined the club’s famed La Masia academy in 2013. He’s since developed into a fine player and one that many believe will become a pillar in the upcoming years.

Despite making his LaLiga debut in April 2019, it wasn’t until Quique Setien replaced Ernesto Valverde as manager in January when his first-team status was truly elevated.

Antoine Griezmann, meanwhile, scored the only goal of the game in Barcelona’s victory over Elche. They’ll face Villarreal next Sunday for their opening game of the 2020/21 LaLiga campaign.