• Premier League

Villas-Boas: Not time to speak about Barca job

ESPN staff
July 20, 2013
Andre Villas-Boas offered his support to Tito Vilanova © PA Photos
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Tottenham head coach Andre Villas-Boas believes it would be inappropriate to link him with the vacancy at Barcelona so soon after Tito Vilanova's resignation due to ill health.

The Spurs boss made some brief comments on the rumours linking him with a move to the Nou Camp after his side's pre-season friendly against Colchester, insisting this was not the moment to start speculating over who would succeed Vilanova.

"It's a difficult situation," stated Villas-Boas. "At this time, all my wishes are with Tito. If he has to resign over illness, it's not the time to speak about speculation. We're speaking about a person's health, it's not even a question."

Meanwhile, the Spurs boss insisted star man Gareth Bale will not be sold by the club this summer - despite the continued interest from Real Madrid - and revealed no club has made a bid for the reigning Player and Young Player of the Year.

"No offers, no," Villas-Boas said of the Welshman. "Bale is not for sale at any price."

Swansea manager Michael Laudrup - who has also been linked with a move away from his position - followed Villas-Boas and offered his sentiments to Vilanova.

Swansea boss Michael Laudrup, a former Barcelona player, offered similar sentiments.

"I can't comment on the speculation," he said after the Swans' friendly victory over Yeovil on Friday. "It's all just happened today and even for those in the club who maybe knew about the situation, I still think the announcement will have come as a shock.

"Just a few weeks ago I read he had said he was strong and feeling 100% ahead of the new season, but now he's gone. I don't know what they're going to do so let's see."

He added: "I don't know Vilanova personally but of course I have been following what has happened. It's very sad. I don't know much more than what has been announced tonight. I hope he will get fit again as this is only football and life is more important."

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