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Koeman criticises Barcelona fans for booing 'unlucky' Griezmann during Getafe victory
The Dutchman has jumped to the defence of the forward in the wake of his latest underwhelming display in a Blaugrana shirt
Ronald Koeman has criticised Barcelona fans for booing "unlucky" Antoine Griezmann during their victory over Getafe.
Barca moved up to fourth in the Liga standings after beating Getafe 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday, thanks to first-half goals from Sergi Roberto and Memphis Depay.
However, Griezmann had an afternoon to forget as he was subjected to heckles from the home support every time he touched the ball and ultimately failed to make an impact before being substituted late on.
What has been said?
Koeman condemned the supporters in his post-match press conference, insisting Griezmann was not the only member of his team to underperform in the final third.
"As a coach I can't understand why fans whistle at one of our players," said the Barca boss. "It's not good. You can shout if he doesn't have the right attitude or does not work. Griezmann had difficulties in the game, he was unlucky, but it was just a game.
"Like all forwards, he has good days and others which are not [good]. There are games in which you can't find space and it also depends on the opponent. We didn't create chances for him either."
Koeman went on to praise his players for grinding out an important win, adding: "It's normal to suffer in football. You don't always play at your level. It was a slower-paced game compared to the one against Real Sociedad, but it also depends on the opposition and Getafe pressed us well.
"In games like today's, last season we lost points and today we won. This is very important. I am very happy with the three points. It was a difficult game and we know how to suffer.
"Our game with the ball has not been so good. Psychologically it has been very important. We know how to suffer and play to win games."
Griezmann's struggles at Barca
Much was expected of Griezmann when Barca paid €120 million (£103m/$142m) to prise him away from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2019, but he has so far failed to live up to that price tag.
The 30-year-old has only recorded 35 goals in 102 games for the Blaugrana with just 21 of those coming in La Liga, but he did help the club secure their 31st Copa Del Rey crown in 2020-21.
Griezmann will be back in contention for a place in Koeman's starting XI when Barca welcome Bayern Munich to Camp Nou for their first Champions League group stage fixture of the new season on September 14.
