Koeman reveals his plans for De Jong and Griezmann

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The are changes afoot for the duo

New Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman has discussed how he plans to use Frenkie de Jong and Antoine Griezmann at the Camp Nou next season.

The Dutchman, who has been tipped to give De Jong a more influential role in the team, says he wants the 23-year-old to play as a deep lying midfielder

“The plan is to start playing Frenkie de Jong in the position that he plays with the national team as well. You’ve spent a lot of money on a young player. You should then play him in his own position, where he can perform in a way you’d expect from him

“He’s shown at Ajax and with the Dutch national team which position suits him best and that’s where he will be playing at Barcelona as well. There’s stiff competition for that role, so he will have to be in great shape and form. But it will be in a position that suits him.”

Koeman also spoke about the role of Griezmann. The Frenchman has tended to play out wide for Barcelona in his first season at the club but looks set to return to a more central role under the new manager.

“The same goes for Antoine Griezmann. He is not a traditional winger, so you have to play him in his own position, in a role that suits him and where he can showcase his abilities. You have to know your players as a coach and ensure you get the best out of them.”

Source | NOS

The first team are reportedly due back for training on August 31 which doesn’t give Koeman too much time to prepare for the new season. The 2020-21 campaign is due to kick-off on September 12.

Source: barcablaugranes.com