After the completely botched start to the season, FC Barcelona has the next chance to stop its descent on Saturday evening. It is doubtful that the club from Rapid loan Yusuf Demir is scratching the curve at the reigning champions Atletico Madrid and coach Ronald Koeman is saving the job for the time being. Spanish media like “Marca” see the Dutch as “the credit used up”.
Barcelona’s new role as a follower – like sixth place in the championship – does not meet the requirements. But the impression is hardened that it is the new reality. In view of the financial difficulties in the club, Koeman relies on young players like 17-year-old Gavi, who was nominated for the Spanish national team for the first time on Thursday. Pedri, who is one year older, has already made it to the regular team in the national jersey, and Ansu Fati, who is also 18, is back after a long injury break. Demir took a seat on the bench last. Waiting seems to be the order of the day again for the Viennese.
Koeman, who will serve a red ban against Atletico in the stands, constantly reminded the new situation at the “Blaugrana”. The Dutchman, whose job is like a suicide mission, has not yet turned negative. Even after the 3-0 win at Benfica Lisbon, he referred to the good things. Support came from the players. “Throwing the coach out would be the easiest. But we are all responsible, ”said Sergio Busquets. The midfielder frankly admitted: “To be honest, it has to be said that we are in a critical situation.”
Xavi is ante portas in Barcelona
From the ranks of the successors brought into play for Koeman, ex-Barca professional Xavi is considered the most promising candidate. In addition to a high financial compensation for the current coach, the “Marca” also cited the possibility that Xavi could also not be successful and could come under criticism for it. The 41-year-old is currently under contract with al-Sadd in Qatar – allegedly without an exit clause.
One glimmer of hope from Koemans is that Atletico has not yet gone as planned this season either. At the champions, of all things, two ex-Barcelona players are the bearers of hope. Antoine Griezmann and Luis Suarez ensured a happy 2-1 win at Milan with their goals in the Champions League. In La Lig, Diego Simeone’s eleven were last defeated by bottom group Alaves (0: 1). The champions have only scored nine goals in seven rounds.
City rival Real is currently laughing from the top position despite the embarrassment in the Champions League and wants to keep it. With 21 hits, Real holds. The Madrilenians with David Alaba started with five wins and two draws. On Sunday it’s away against Espanyol. The 1: 2 on Tuesday against Sheriff Tiraspol should remain a one-time slip.
