Samuel Umtiti responds to rumours of Barcelona surgery conflict | OneFootball

Samuel Umtiti insists there was no conflict between him and Barcelona over his decision to avoid knee surgery.

Umtiti has made just ten appearances this season after struggling with cartilage problems, but opted to undergo natural rehabilitation instead of a medical procedure.

There were rumours of the club being unhappy with this decision, but Umtiti reveals there was nothing but support from those at board level.

“I never had any conflict with the club because of the decision I made,” he told L’Equipe. “The club always listened to me and supported me.

“It was not an easy decision to make, it was easy to have an operation. I am mentally strong, although there were moments when I thought everything was going to fail.

“Luckily it went well, and I was lucky to be well advised by my environment.”

“I’m very happy to play,” the Frenchman added. “It’s something I have not been able to do for the last three months.

“The most important thing is to have good health and my knee and my body to respond well.”

Barcelona host Lyon on Wednesday in their Champions League last 16 second-leg, before facing Betis on Sunday.