Ousmane Dembélé has responded via Instagram to the reports about his person. Director Mateu Alemany said on behalf of Barcelona on Thursday morning that the French winger must leave as soon as possible because he does not intend to extend his expiring contract. Dembele writes in a statement that he does not intend to leave Barcelona and emphasizes that negotiations are still ongoing. Xavi decided not to include the attacker in the match selection for Thursday evening’s away game against Athletic Club.
“Hello everyone”, that’s how Dembélé starts his message on Instagram. “For the past four years I’ve read things that were said about me without worrying about it. For the past four years I have remained calm. For the past four years, people have been spreading lies about me to harm me. For the past four years I have always made the choice not to respond. Was that a mistake? Secure.”
“Today I will respond, without giving in to blackmail,” Dembélé continues. “I am 24 years old and like every human being, I have my shortcomings. I’ve had difficult months, struggled with injuries and got corona. Without my training, the trainer called on me. I’ve always been there, simply because football is my passion. I am absolutely aware that I am lucky enough to be able to practice the most beautiful profession in the world.”
“I don’t want anyone to give the impression that I’m not involved in this project,” emphasizes Dembélé. “I no longer want people to ascribe to me intentions that I never had. I no longer want anyone to speak for me or my agent. I trust my agent completely. Since I still have a contract, I am still ready for the club and the coach. I have always given everything for my teammates and I will continue to do so. I am not one to cheat people or give in to blackmail.”
“You all know there are negotiations. I’ll let my agent handle that, it’s his area of expertise. My field is football, I want to experience joyful moments with my teammates. We have to focus on the most important thing: winning,” concludes Dembélé. The Frenchman is not part of Barcelona’s match squad for Thursday night’s Copa del Rey away game against Athletic Club.