Played Sporadically In Barcelona, Miralem Pjanic Is Frustrated

Miralem Pjanic (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Miralem Pjanic expressed his frustration at not getting regular playing time at Barcelona.

Pjanic has played sporadically in coach Ronald Koeman's squad since joining Barcelona from Juventus in the 2020 summer transfer market.

The Bosnian national team (national) midfielder moved to Camp Nou in an exchange deal with Arthur Melo, after spending four seasons with Juventus.

He has established himself as one of the most consistent midfielders in Serie A during his time in the Italian league, but has not been given the opportunity to prove himself at the Catalonia club.

The 30-year-old midfielder has only started La Liga once for Barca to date, despite the fact Koeman's side have struggled to find top form in the domestic competition with just four wins in their opening 10 games this season.

Pjanic feels he has proven solid throughout his five Champions League appearances, and cannot understand why Koeman continues to ignore him in the Spanish league.

"Should I play more? Yes, and that's what I want. To be honest, I don't even understand the reason for this situation. Obviously I want to play more," Pjanic told Gazzetta Dello Sport quoted by Antara, Monday, December 7.

"I know I can give a lot, and when the coach calls, I always do well, I put in a good game."

"I don't know what else I can do. I'm training, I'm ready."

When asked if he would continue to be patient to get his chance to shine at the Camp Nou, the former Juventus star said he was not satisfied with his current playing time.

"I'm not satisfied and I can't, so far I've never accepted the idea of not playing and I'm not even doing it now."

"We'll see, I'm ready, I'm training well and waiting, I can't do it (indefinitely). It's a very complicated situation that doesn't suit me."

Pjanic will take on his former club when Barca host Juve at Camp Nou for the final group stage game in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The experienced midfielder looks back on his time in Turin, but insists he does not regret his decision to take on a "new challenge" in Spain.

"I am satisfied with the club and my team-mates. My nine years in Italy have been wonderful, and I honestly miss them," added Pjanic.

"I'm having fun at Roma and Juve, I'm enjoying important seasons. Now I have a new challenge at the biggest club in the world and I have to get back to the game."

"This is something new that I want to try."