The first training match of pre-season was approaching and Ernesto Valverde wanted to make two teams. But he had too many players, so he talked personally to Vermaelen, Munir and Douglas to tell they weren’t going to get a game.
The three already knew they weren’t in the manager’s plans but they appreciated the gesture from Valverde. The rest of the squad also took note of the manager’s decency and realised why he usually has a good relationship with his players.