Koeman is earning his place

Posted Friday, March 05, 2021 by Marca.com

Ronald Koeman knows more than anyone that, if he is to continue on the Barcelona bench next season, he'll have to continue racking up the wins rather than chaining together a series of disasters.

The Dutchman does, though, have the comfort of a contract that runs until 2022, and he has pointed that out whenever his future has looked in doubt.

But with a new president on his way, Koeman's position is anything but guaranteed at the Camp Nou.

For that very reason, wins like that against Sevilla in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg are of huge importance to Koeman, particularly with each of the three presidential candidates watching on from the stands.

The Champions League looks to be a lost cause already, but the Catalans are alive and kicking in LaLiga Santander, and they're into the Copa del Rey final as well, meaning they're contending for two pieces of silverware despite all of the problems that have hung over the club this season.

The dressing room is with him

Koeman has the backing of his players, even despite the way he arrived at the Camp Nou and caused a stir.

Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique both hugged the coach at the end of the game, and they're very much on side.

Even Jordi Alba came out afterwards and praised Koeman, saying "he's doing a great job and has always been up front with the players".

As well as the results and the players' support, it has to be noted that Barcelona's game has improved. They're getting results while also giving minutes to younger players as well, and things somehow look good at the Camp Nou again.