Barcelona could not have had a worse start to the season as they secured only 8 points from their last 6 games in La Liga. The Catalan club tried redemption for their trophyless season last campaign but their lackluster performances in the Spanish top division tell other stories.
Koeman expected to shine after two wins in his first three games
Even though they are unbeaten in the Champions League group stage, there is a chance that their form in la Liga may cost them their UCL qualification for the upcoming season. 6-time Balon D’or winner and Barca star Lionel Messi are out of form as he is racking up goals only from the penalty spot. He is yet to score from an open play as Koeman has given a critical review of the players missing out on opportunities to score in front of the goal.
La Masia graduate Ansu Fati had a breakthrough season last year and is taking the responsibilities on his shoulders to score goals and create chances. The 18-year-old has the most number of goals for Barcelona in this campaign with 5 goals and also provided 2 assists. He is sure to start against Real Betis in their next match in La Liga. The return of Marc-Andre Ter Stegen was duly noted with his spectacular saves which ensured Barcelona their third win in the Champions League group stage matches against Dynamo Kyiv.
Will Koeman rotate the Barcelona squad?
The defense line will comprise Gerrard Pique and Clement Lenglet partnering with each other in the center-back positions, as Marca reports. There is a possibility Korman may shuffle his squad bringing in Sergi Roberto in the right-back position. Also, Messi could sit out the fixture on the bench with Griezmann playing as the number 9 along with Fati and Pedri on the flanks. However, the midfield shall remain constant with Frenkie De Jong and Sergio Busquets.
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Ronald Koeman is yet to start or feature Riqui Puig for the first team this season. There might be a risk pitching him with the opportunity against Manuel Pellegrini’s side who have racked up 4 wins in 8 matches and are ahead of Barcelona in the league table. The Catalan outfit is currently on 12th but has 2 matches in hand with respect to Betis. Fans would want to see Barca back to winning ways but it seems more than a challenge without a proper striker in the team.
