The Uruguayan superstar Luis Suarez gave an interview to journalist Gerard Romero on his Twitch channel, Jijantes FC.
The Atletico Madrid striker discussed his bitter departure from Barcelona and his call with Coach Ronald Koeman, as well as his reunion with Antoine Griezmann at the Wanda Metropolitano and Atlético’s 2-0 win over Barcelona last Saturday.
Suarez on Koeman, Barcelona and Griezmann
It (Koeman’s call) lasted 40 seconds. That is not the way to fire a club legend. First, he told me that I was not in his plans and then he told me that if I didn’t resolve my contract I was going to play against Villarreal. There were things that weren’t clear. He lacked the personality to tell me things clearly, whether it was him that didn’t want me or whether it was really the club that didn’t want me.
They were very difficult days after everything I gave to the club. I spoke with [my wife] Sofía and Leo [Messi] after the call. It was a difficult year because of everything. Messi asked to leave and I was fired. Our two families had a very bad time. I came home from training in a very bad way.
Atletico-Barça game last Saturday
I saw a team (Barcelona) in bad spirits, the images speak for themselves and seeing teammates like that hurt me.
I would like the Barça fans to have patience with the change that is taking place. Over time they will be able to bring new players, it’s still one of the biggest teams.
Swapping shirts with Barca’s 17-year-old midfielder Gavi after the match
He is young and has a lot to learn but we must congratulate him on what he is doing. The other day he waited for me to ask for my shirt and we swapped them.
Griezmann’s return to Atletico
Three days before signing Griezmann, I had a feeling that he would come. We talked about it after playing against Villarreal.
I thought Atleti would wait until the end to sign him. I always had a good relationship with him at Barça. We never had any problems. We have had a barbecue together; we have a very good relationship.
On Atletico level
We know that we have to improve in each game, but it is obvious that we have a great team to fight for everything.
Atletico training
The training sessions are very intense. ‘El Profe’ (Oscar ‘The Teacher’ Ortega, Atleti’s notoriously demanding fitness coach) and the coach (Diego Simeone) are always on top of us.
On Ansu Fati
Putting pressure on Ansu would be a mistake. At 19, he can’t do it all by himself, he has to share responsibility.
Xavi Hernandez taking over Barcelona
If Xavi takes over the club now, without a clear project due to the financial problems that exist, it could jeopardize his legacy. If he comes they would have to offer him a project without financial difficulties.
He also has the handicap of having friends in the locker room. But still, he is the most suitable candidate. He knows everything that must be done to succeed at the club but he must choose the right moment.
Playing with Messi again
You never know. If within a year, or two or three, I want to go to a team and Leo happens to be there … it could happen…
