Koeman planning clear-out, De Jong set for key role

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The new coach is making plans for his new team

Ronald Koeman is set to be announced as Barcelona’s new manager imminently and has already been thinking about how his team will look at the Camp Nou.

The Dutchman reportedly has a clear plan which is going to spell bad news for many of Barcelona’s veterans, according to El Periodico.

Koeman wants to start off by waving goodbye to Luis Suárez, Samuel Umtiti, Arturo Vidal and Ivan Rakitic and could do the same with Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets too.

Of course much may depend on the transfer market which is difficult to predict due to the impact of the coronavirus crisis.

However, Koeman is thinking along the lines of Pep Guardiola in 2008 and wants to “regenerate a flawed dressing room” which has been “gaining power while losing performance.”

The report also highlights how Koeman’s arrival will mean Frenkie de Jong can “acquire an influential role” after a mixed first season at the club.

Indeed Koeman questioned Barcelona’s use of De Jong earlier this season.

“With the national team, he players deeper but we play with two holding midfielders and Barcelona only play with one and two central midfielders, or sometimes with four central midfielders.

The position he is playing now is different to the national team and Ajax.

“He’s learning to play further forward like this, it’s not all bad, but it’s not his best position. For me, I think he performs better playing deeper.”

Source | Marca

Philippe Coutinho could also play a part for Barcelona next season. It seems there’s no-one willing to pay Barca’s asking price of €80 million so he will play for the club next season.

And then there’s Lionel Messi. The report admits he’s angry but points out his buyout clause and wages mean few clubs can afford him right now. El Periodico say Messi is currently biding his time before making a final decision on his future.

Source: barcablaugranes.com