Ronald Koeman and Antoine Griezmann have had a mini war of words through the media since Barcelona's 1-1 draw at home to Sevilla just before the international break, yet the Dutchman has made clear that there is no issue between himself and the French forward.
Griezmann was criticised for missing some chances in that game and Koeman pointed that out, which led to the 29-year-old making clear whilst on international duty with France that Didier Deschamps plays him in the right position for Les Bleus, which thus allows him to shine.
So far this season, Koeman has lined up Griezmann on the right wing, with Philippe Coutinho as the No.10, Ansu Fati as the left winger and Lionel Messi as the striker, albeit with the freedom to drop deeper and dictate Barcelona's play.
"Everyone has the right to say things," Koeman said during Friday's press conference when asked about Griezmann. "We know that these things can happen.
"I was talking to him yesterday afternoon, [but] not because of what he said. We talked about his position and performance. I told him that I look for the best for the team, and if I think it is better that he plays on the right wing, but [coming] inside, not on the touchline ... then I'll put [him there].
"He can play there, [and also as a] No.10 and No.9. But I decide what is best for the team. He's doing the best he can do: working, being disciplined... In the France vs Netherlands game, he played on the right wing. But the coach is in charge and the player has to give his all.
"You don't have to talk so much about a footballer or compare him to anyone else. I have no problem with Antoine. I look for the best and try to get the best out of everyone. Someone plays as a No.11 and one must play as a No.10, another No.9, others in holding midfield... but I don't put anyone in a place other than their position. Griezmann can play inside."
Barcelona have four games in the next 11 days, which includes a Clasico at the Camp Nou against Real Madrid and then a Champions League match away to Juventus three days later, but Koeman is convinced that Lionel Messi will be able to play in all four matches.
"We want to put our best team to win in every game," Koeman stated. "We know that there is fatigue after being with the [players' respective] national teams, especially for the big teams that have a lot of internationals.
"Everyone has come back with enthusiasm and joy. After the session [on Friday], we will decide [who will play against Getafe on Saturday].
"I think Messi can play all four games. I talk to them and then we decide. But Leo has been playing a very tight schedule for many years. Besides, if he doesn't play he is more tired. If there is a medical issue, it's another matter. "
Frenkie de Jong came in for criticism from Koeman after Barcelona's draw against Sevilla, but he believes his international performances with the Netherlands put him in good stead of his return to action with the Blaugrana.
"Against Sevilla he was not up to it," the coach noted. "He is very self-critical. He knows when he's not at his level.
"He has the right to play a bad game; I'm not too worried about that. With the Netherlands, he was the best. We must not forget that he is very young."
Source: m.allfootballapp.com