Lenglet discusses his rivalry with Umtiti at Barcelona

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The defenders are playing for the same spot

Clement Lenglet has been talking about his rivalry with fellow centre-back Samuel Umtiti at Barcelona and how he wants to stay at the Camp Nou.

The two defenders are competing for the same spot in defence alongside Gerard Pique and both have been in and out of the team this season.

Lenglet has started more games in La Liga than his French team-mate, although Umtiti has enjoyed plenty of game time since Quique Setien arrived at the club.

The 24-year-old spoke about the competition between the two players and why he felt he had been benched at times by Setien.

“You never really know what the future will be like when you are a soccer player, but I hope to be from Barcelona next season, yes. It will necessarily depend on the transfer window, it’s a special period for clubs, and we are safe from nothing, but I hope to stay,” he said.

“There are several reasons for this [being on the bench]. The arrival of a new coach, Samuel who was good when he also played ... The cards were redistributed.

“After that I did play a lot, we are the same in terms of playing time. However I did not play the Clasico, it was a little disappointing for me but it’s part of a footballer’s life. I’m preparing well, hoping to play very regularly.”

Source | RMC Sport

There has been plenty of speculation Umtiti could depart Barcelona this summer. The club are said to be concerned by his injury record and willing to cash in if an acceptable offer arrives.

Source: barcablaugranes.com