Marco Verratti's agent says his client "deserves respect" from French pundits after the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder was criticised for his reaction to being substituted during the 0-0 draw with Marseille on Sunday.
PSG coach Unai Emery opted to withdraw Verratti, 23, after 59 minutes of the Ligue 1 clash at the Parc des Princes and the Italy international was seen saying as he came off: "What was that for? I was bad? He [Emery] said I was bad?"
Verratti's negative reaction to being substituted prompted many members of the French media to question the player's attitude, happiness in Paris and relationship with Emery, while his struggle to rediscover his best form post-groin surgery was also highlighted.
Verratti's agent Donato Di Campli reacted to the criticism by telling Tuttosport that "Marco deserves respect for everything he has done for PSG," though the representative's words were quickly interpreted as being aimed at the club and Emery.
Di Campli, however, has since moved to clarify his position.
"What bothered me was the reaction of the French radio and television commentators, not the club," he told Premium Sport.
Verratti recently expressed to Le Figaro his desire to stay in Paris and win the Champions League before leaving because he feels "good at this club and in this city."
Tuttosport, though, claims he is looking to leave the French capital because of a breakdown in his relationship with Emery and that Inter Milan are interested alongside long-time admirers Juventus.
"Is there any hope for Juventus and Milan?" Di Campli said. "Marco wants to win the Champions League in Paris, so for now he absolutely will not move. He is at the centre of their project. Marco deserves respect."