Laporta decided to continue with Koeman, not because the meeting between the two was convincing, but because he couldn't find an ideal replacement for the long term now. Koeman's future now depends on the games against Valencia, Dynamo Kiev and Real Madrid.
As much as Ronald Koeman assures that he has the support of the players, the truth is that a big part of the squad has long ceased to believe in the coach. The dressing room are doubting his tactical decisions, and are not happy about the messages he sends to the media.
Sergio Agüero is now the player who is the closest to returning from injury.
• Everything indicates that he will be available after the international break and make his debut against Valencia, although not as a starter.
Koeman has almost completely lost the dressing room. Nobody liked that he publicly blamed Nico for Atleti’s first goal yesterday. The young midfielder was already distraught after his half-time substitution, and the manager’s words hurt him even more.
• Barcelona have managed just one shot on target in the last two matches vs Benfica and Atlético Madrid.
• Young Gavi won the ball back, made a great run and passed to Coutinho who was in an excellent position to score but his shot was straight at Oblak.
Against Bayern, Benfica and Atlético, Barça have barely finished on goal. It's a disaster. With Coutinho, it's to take him by the ear and return the money he has cost.
• Barcelona are 9th in La Liga and could drop to 10th if Betis draw or win vs Villarreal.
• Barça have 12 points but they have a game in hand, vs Sevilla.
• Atleti & Real lead the league. Atleti have 17 points and Real could jump to 20 with a win today.
Gavi: a ray of hope.
• He started again and was one of Barça's best players.
• He was unfairly booked and starred in the team's best attack that Coutinho didn't take advantage of.
• He even shown his character by taking on much stronger and experienced players.
Gavi's current contract ends in June 2023 but Barça's intention is to call his representatives soon to extend and improve the contract.
• He still has a subsidiary record and salary.
• They know that top clubs will knock on his door soon.
0 Comments