Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has admitted frustration over their refusal to sign Manchester City defender Eric Garcia.

City were prepared to sell Garcia to Barca last month for €5m plus another €5m in bonuses, but the interim board refused given the election and the state of their finances.

Koeman said yesterday: "I told the club that we needed a signing, but I respect all decisions.

"I talked to them (presidential candidates) but I respect the club's decision due to the financial situation.

"We work with what we have, but due to bad luck and injuries we lack defenders. We lack strength, we have not strengthened in the way we needed. Due to injuries, our defence has weakened."