Frank Rijkaard says that while he has no plans to return to coaching, if the chance to return to Barcelona ever arose, he would ‘gladly’ accept.
Rijkaard was Barca boss between 2003 and 2008, winning two La Liga titles, in 2004-05 and 2005-06, and added the Champions League in the latter season.
“So far I have no plans to coach again. Right now, no, but you never know,” he told Al Primer Toque, Marca reports.
“I’d gladly return to Barcelona. I have many good memories there and it is part of my football life.”
Rijkaard discussed a number of related issues, including some of the Barca players he worked with and the current trainer, Luis Enrique.
“Enrique’s proven to be very brave and he has a way of motivating players. It’s not a problem to be motivated after winning the Champions League. It’s the opposite, a challenge,” the Dutchman continued.
“Lionel Messi’s numbers are his best ever. He continues to surprise me. He’s still young and can keep going.
“I think Xavi Hernandez could have kept playing at the highest level. He’s a great professional who cares a lot. He’s a Barcelona idol.
“I feel sorry for the situation Victor Valdes is in [after being frozen out at Manchester United]. I hope he’s able to play again someday soon.
“He deserves more than this. He’s a hard worker, a great goalkeeper, and he has meant a lot to Barca.
“La Liga is the most competitive division. Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are two great teams but it’s more level in Spain.
“The Spain team have the talent to win again, but there are teams that are very strong, like Germany.”
