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MADRID, Aug 12 (Reuters) - Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o will stay at Barcelona after proving his commitment to the cause throughout the club's pre-season, coach Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday.
Frank Rijkaard's replacement as coach had said that Eto'o, along with Brazil's Ronaldinho and Portugal's Deco, did not feature in his plans when he was presented in June.
Ronaldinho and Deco were sold to AC Milan and Chelsea respectively but Guardiola said he had had a change of heart with Eto'o.
"Samuel Eto'o will stay with us because it is what I want and what he wants," Guardiola told a news conference on the eve of their Champions League third qualifying round first leg against Wisla Krakow at the Nou Camp.
"I know I said I was not counting on him on my first day, but I also said things could change. His attitude in Scotland and the United States has made me decide to keep him. He is an immense talent."
Guardiola was quick to head off suggestions that the U-turn was due to the club's inability to find a suitable replacement, a lack of offers for the player, or because of the continuing doubts over France striker Thierry Henry's form.
Eto'o has been impressive in front of goal during their pre-season.
Barca had said they were looking for a new frontman and were closely linked with a move for Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor before the Togo striker decided to sign a new contract at the London club.
"The negotiations for a number nine stopped a few weeks ago under orders from myself and (sports director) Txiki Begiristain," he added.
"Before someone arrived someone had to go, and as everything seemed to go well I decided it wasn't necessary to sign anyone. I need both players (Eto'o and Henry).
"Henry has played well in the pre-season. I know there is a current of opinion against him but I am his coach and know how he is outside games as well. I am delighted with his performance and know the goals will arrive soon."
