Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman confessed being appointed at Barcelona next summer was a ‘possibility’ for him.
According to a report in Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo last month, director of the Dutch FA Nico-Jan Hoogma revealed an option in Koeman's contract to join the Blaugrana next summer.
Hoogma confirmed in an interview back in September that Koeman does have a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave for Barcelona.
He stated that whilst Koeman's current deal with La Oranje runs until 2022, he has a clause which would allow him to join the La Liga champions after the European Championships next summer – should they make a move for him.
He also indicated that there would be a release clause in place for such a deal, although declined to comment on the details of it, but confirmed that it applies solely to Barcelona.
“It (joining Barcelona is a possibility, but only after the European Championships,” Koeman is cited as saying by Marca.
“It is a bit strange to be talking about the possibility of going to another club when you are still the Netherlands boss, but I do not know what will happen in the future.”
Earlier this month, Koeman told Fox Sports Netherlands, as cited by ESPN FC: “I found it unfortunate that it was brought to light. I'm not angry, but we [Koeman along with Hoogma] talked about it.
“A white lie can sometimes be good. I tell them from time to time.
“(However), I can safely say that I will not leave my position as coach [of the Dutch national team] for any club [before the European Championships].
“[The clause] is only relevant to Barcelona and it only comes into play after the European Championships. I am not leaving now, that is 100% certain.
“After the European Championships, there is an evaluation moment and, who knows, maybe the KNVB will say: 'We have performed so badly at the Euros, we are not going to continue together.' But I also have the opportunity to leave for one club. And there's only one club [included in the clause].”
Koeman made 192 appearances as a Barcelona player, between 1989 and 1995, winning four La Liga titles and a European Cup in 1992.
Before returning as assistant to to Louis Van Gaal between 1998 and 2000, winning another league title in the process.
