Munir El Haddadi: ‘Barcelona told Ernesto Valverde not to pick me’

New Sevilla striker Munir El Haddadi has claimed Barcelona Coach Ernesto Valverde was told not to select him ‘by those above him’ at the Camp Nou.

The 23-year-old joined the Andalusian club in a €1m deal last week having told Barca he had no intention of renewing his contract at the club, which was due to expire in June.

“I was on holiday (for the New Year break) and confirmed my intentions to the club (of not renewing),” Munir told reporters, as cited by El Mundo Deportivo, at his club presentation.

“It was then that our Coach (Valverde) informed me I would no longer be selected and that was a decision from those above him.

“I never stopped working and I am very glad to be here at Sevilla before the summer.”

Munir has made 33 La Liga appearances for Barca but made just one league start this campaign and has spent the past two seasons out on loan, firstly at Valencia and then at Alaves.

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