Ousmane Dembele has been warned to improve his attitude and focus on being more professional by club legend Rivaldo.
On Monday, sources said that Dembele had been two hours late for a training session on Sunday.
The 21-year-old, linked with a move away from Barca next month, was tracked down at his home by club security staff a day after starring in the 4-0 derby win over Espanyol.
In October, sources said that the club had concerns about Dembele’s off-pitch behaviour. Rivaldo said there was no doubting the France international’s talent but said he needed to change in order to make the most of it.
“Ousmane Dembele’s situation at Barcelona is upsetting because he’s already shown that he can play very well, score goals and be an important member of the team,” he said.
“He just needs to focus on being a little more professional and to stop being late for training sessions.
“This is not the correct mentality for someone potentially trying to leave Barcelona. It’s always strange to hear that someone might want to leave a big club in this way.
“If he wants to leave, he must prove his value by playing well and not missing training sessions to recover his credibility as a professional. That will generate interest from other clubs.
“If he doesn’t change, he is hurting himself more than the club.”
Former Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta echoed Rivaldo’s comments, saying that club rules are meant to be followed, although he said the club should look for solutions.
“There is always a way to fix any mistake. We have to listen to what he has said, learn about what has happened and solve it. I don’t think this is irreconcilable to find a solution for his tardiness,” said Iniesta during a publicity event.
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