Barcelona cannot hope to be the best in the world

The Blaugrana boss is anxious over the impending consequences of Lionel Messi’s departure and the club’s financial difficulties.

Ronald Koeman admits Barcelona “cannot hope to be the best in the world” without Lionel Messi, more so because they haven’t been able to replace him while other European powerhouses have made superstars signings.

Paris Saint-Germain have had quite possibly the best summer so far, adding the likes of Sergio Ramos, Achraf Hakimi, Gianluigi Donnarumma Gergino Wijnaldum, and, of course, Messi.

Manchester City broke the British transfer record to land the talented while Chelsea have further bolstered their attack by securing the services of Romelu Lukaku.

Manchester United, meanwhile, have signed Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane. Most importantly, Cristiano Ronaldo is also set to complete his sensational return to Old Trafford.

While Barca have not exactly had a slow summer, having brought in Sergio Aguero, Memphis Depay, and Eric Garcia all on a free transfer, their signings are not as alluring as of their other European rivals.

“I understand it. For everyone that wants the best for the club, it’s frustrating, I understand it,” said Koeman, as SPORT reports.

“On the other hand, we have to be realistic. Economically, the club can’t compete with other clubs, with Paris [Saint-Germain] [Manchester] City, [Manchester] United … that’s how it is right now. We have to accept it.

“We aspire to win everything and we have to have a winning mentality, but we cannot hope to be the best in the world.

“We’ve lost the best player in the world and we have to be realistic. You can’t demand the same because the team is different.”