Iniesta: Guardiola departure unthinkable

Barcelona ace Andres Iniesta insists the Catalans are not even contemplating the possibility of losing coach Pep Guardiola at season’s end.

Guardiola, who is on a rolling year-by-year contract at Camp Nou, has been linked with a move to the English Premier League.

With Barcelona 10 points adrift of La Liga leaders Real Madrid, Iniesta said his side were focused on the remainder of the campaign and had avoided thinking about their coach’s potential departure.

“We don’t consider that option. We think about having the most difficult and challenging part of the season ahead,” Iniesta said on Thursday.

“We think about finishing the season in a good and, hopefully, successful way and that our coach will be with us next year and we will be fighting for everything. That is mine and everyone’s wish.”

Barcelona desperately need a win against Atletico Madrid on Sunday with their title chances quickly slipping away.

Iniesta believes the title race is still alive, but knows they will find it tough against an Atletico side unbeaten under Diego Simeone.

“To win a league you have to be consistent both at home and away, and this year we are struggling to do that,” he said.

“All matches are difficult, but this one especially, as it is away and against Atletico, who have been very dynamic since their new coach arrived.”

“But we are excited and want to play well and get the three points, keeping the pressure on those above us.”