Quique Setién: I was close to Egypt before Barcelona challenge

Former Barcelona head coach Quique Setién has opened up about a surprising turn in his career, revealing that he was on the verge of joining an Egyptian side just days before he was appointed at the Camp Nou.

Setién was out of work at the time following health issues and was actively planning a move to Egypt. He had even gone as far as securing a private plane and drafting a contract with a businessman looking to invest in a local club. However, the deal collapsed during the due diligence process.

"They would call me and say: don't go to Egypt, because you might sign a contract with Barcelona," Setién recalled. "And I would answer: but how would I sign for Barcelona? And what have I even done to take charge of coaching Barcelona?" Despite his skepticism, the call came just three days later, and he was on his way to Spain.

Reflecting on his time at the club, Setién admitted that he struggled with the tactical awareness of some players. He claimed that even footballers worth 80 million euros often lacked a fundamental understanding of how to read the game.

"I would show them clips of their performance during the match and ask: how do you see it now? What else could you have done?" Setién explained. He believes that by forcing players to visualize their decisions, they begin to think more clearly on the pitch, allowing the team to function more effectively.

Setién also touched upon the controversial incident involving his assistant, Eder Sarabia, who was caught on camera harshly criticizing players during a Clásico. While admitting the episode caused friction in the dressing room, Setién maintained that such debates were part of a professional relationship and essential for development.