Lyon boss warns Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman off Memphis Depay

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 20 November 2020

Lyon manager Rudi Garcia fires an intimidating hands-off warning to Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman following the Dutchman's comments on Memphis Depay.

Lyon boss Rudi Garcia has fired a hands-off warning to Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman over Memphis Depay.

With La Blaugrana looking to bolster their attack after Luis Suarez's departure, Depay continues to be linked with a switch to Barca after coming close to a transfer in the most recent window.

Koeman - who worked with Depay while in charge of the Netherlands - has openly spoken about his admiration for the 26-year-old, but Garcia has issued some strong words after being left unimpressed with Koeman talking up the Gones captain.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Lyon's game with Angers on Sunday, Garcia said: "Remind me to trip Ronald Koeman up [the next time I see him].

"Now is not the time. We will have an opportunity to do it, don't worry. My 18cm studs are always in my boots and I'll put on my good boots at the right time."

Depay, who is now in the final year of his contract at Lyon, has made a prolific start to proceedings with five goals and three assists to show from 10 Ligue 1 matches this term.