Barcelona coach Quique Setien has defended his management of Antoine Griezmann.

Griezmann came on in the 89th minute against Atletico Madrid, with this being the third time in four games that he'd started on the bench, and reports are beginning to circulate about the Frenchman's future.

"The footballer is fine; I've exchanged words with him," Setien noted.

"He's a great professional. He's a player who can understand this situation deep down, as he has done in other stages of his footballing life.

"He's an extraordinary kid, tremendously professional and it won't affect him when he plays again. He is very positive. And we can count on him one hundred percent when he returns to the pitch.

"Griezmann is a great player and very important for the club and for the team.

"If he plays, you ask me why Ansu Fati doesn't play... everybody can't play and I decide according to my criteria, according to what they bring. I'm not fickle.

"I take into account the hierarchy, but at a club like Barcelona, with so many great players, not everyone will be able to play.

"I know that some will be angry, but not everyone can be there. It's my decision and I have to take responsibility."