Barcelona have rejected claims they have spoken with Jose Mourinho about replacing manager Frank Rijkaard.

Reports from Spain suggested Barca had spoken to the former Chelsea boss, who parted ways with the Blues last September, about succeeding the Dutchman next season.

Rijkaard is under pressure as his side are nine points behind Primera Liga leaders Real Madrid.

But Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists the club are fully behind Rijkaard.

"We're not thinking of another coach. Rijkaard is under contract until 2009," he said.

"He's a great coach whose image matches the club's. He is serene, sensible, capable, hard-working and he has a sense of humour.

"He has been with us for five years and he will leave when he wants."

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