WITH Lionel Messi staying put for now, new Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman knows the importance of hitting the ground running as manager of his former club.
The Dutchman succeeded the sacked Quique Setien with the club in crisis, having been humiliated by Bayern Munich and with Messi hellbent on leaving for pastures new.
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Ronald Koeman watched on as Lionel Messi returned to action on SaturdayCredit: EPA
While Messi relented, not having the heart to take his beloved club to court, Koeman still faces a difficult job in uniting a fractured club and instantly reinstating them as challengers for both domestic and European honours.
Experienced pros such as Arturo Vidal and Luis Suarez are to be ousted, while the likes of Philippe Coutinho could be given a second chance.
In Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Koeman has the ideal goalkeeper at his disposal – but his back four may need some work.
The 57-year-old is likely to get Barcelona playing their traditional 4-3-3 formation again – but has admitted that they could be more defensive this time around.
He said: “It may be different and somewhat more defensive than what has been seen in recent years, but the objective is to move the ball, hold on to it and find the spaces to play between the lines, and behind rival midfielders.”
Versatile academy product Sergi Roberto could get the nod over Nelson Semedo at right-back – while Jordi Alba still has the quality even at 31 to star on the opposite flank.
Gerard Pique offered to step aside in the wake of their 8-2 mauling by Bayern, but his experience could be useful to keep around – particularly if Barca seal the signing of Manchester City youngster Eric Garcia, 19, to partner him.
Sergio Busquets is thought to be not quite what he was at the heart of midfield and could begin to be phased out – with new signing Miralem Pjanic able to dictate play from deep.
Barcelona are reportedly on the verge of signing Memphis DepayCredit: EPA
Miralem Pjanic waved goodbye to Juventus this summerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Eric Garcia could seal a return from Manchester CityCredit: Reuters
Barca fans will be hoping for more from Frenkie de Jong in his second season at the club, while Koeman has revealed that he will give Philippe Coutinho a second chance to shine at the club, having scored against them for Bayern last month.
Messi, happy or not, will take his place on the right of Barcelona’s attacking trident.
And he could be joined by Memphis Depay, with Barca reportedly close to sealing the ex-Manchester United star’s signature from Lyon in a £28million deal.
With all my respect, Griezmann must play in his position
Ronald Koeman
In place of Luis Suarez through the middle will be Antoine Griezmann, with Koeman having admitted that the Frenchman needs to be played in his proper position.
He said last month: “With all my respect, Griezmann must play in his position.
“It is not extreme. You have to play in your position.
“This is most important part of being a coach; knowing your players well and getting the most out of them.”
Lionel Messi plays in Barcelona friendly after transfer saga with Griezmann, Coutinho and Dembélé scoring in win
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
