Setien Defending Himself

Barcelona has been in a rut since their return. They have been able to maintain ties or wins for each game, but they’ve been close. Many people have been asking manager Quique Sentien why he’s made certain choices to bench players. Setien has been defending himself on his managing decision.

He said that he has no interest in the player’s market value. He will play who he believes will help the team. This came out after Saturday’s game against Celta Virgo when they tied 2-2.

He kept Antoine Griezmann on the bench until late in the second half when the game was already tied. Lionel Messi had set up Luis Suarez for two goals. But there was a third dynamic that was missing from the game.

Griezmann has been able to help with the team since he arrived from Atletico Madrid. He has had 14 goals in 42 games. Which is why people were wondering why Setien had Griezmann benched for most of the game.

“I don’t take into consideration the players’ price tag,” Setien said.

“Last week we chose one specific team, and today we decided on another one. Last week you asked me why Ansu Fati wasn’t playing, why Riqui Puig wasn’t playing and today why Griezmann isn’t playing. These are decisions I make and they are technical decisions. They’re not made rashly, and they are done with the best of intentions for the team.”

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Hopefully, in the next game, Setien and the team can get their act together. Iago Aspas’ goal in the 88 minute for Celta was a tough pill for Barca to swallow.

It will get tougher because they have now lost their first-place standing. Real Madrid was one point behind, but after their win against Espanyol on Sunday, they’ve jumped to the top. Espanyol tried to put up a good fight, but Real Madrid was able to win 1-0. Now Real Madrid has a two-point lead on Barca.

If Barca’s bad streak continues to go on, people will continue to ask about his managerial decisions. Setien may have to continue defending himself if the team can’t turn around.