Ronald Koeman has taken some positive notes from the Barcelona training ground amid ongoing preparations for the new season.
Koeman was appointed the new chief of staff at Barcelona after the club severed ties with Quique Setien.
An utterly disappointing season saw the Catalans surrender the LaLiga title to arch-rivals Real Madrid. But, a disastrous 8-2 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League was the final straw.
Indeed, the way the Blaugrana bowed out of the Champions League was the final nail in the Spaniard’s coffin.
Now, Koeman is the man entrusted with a daunting task of bringing the glory days back to Camp Nou.
The 57-year-old tactician did a miraculous work reigniting the Netherlands national team. He now needs to do more to resurrect the fallen giants.
The Dutchman is keen to clear out the ranks and put his own stamp on the Barcelona squad. But, he’s so far been unable to land any of his targets.
While waiting for the board to fulfill his transfer desires, Koeman has to work with what he has at his disposal.
After being at the helm for just over 20 days, the former Southampton and Everton boss has something to show for.
Speaking of his early managerial career in Catalonia, Koeman has reflected on the team’s work.
“They’ve been very positive. We’re two weeks in, and the players are working very well,” he told the club’s official website.
“There is a good level of intensity in training. First of all, with the fitness side in the opening weeks, and now with tactics.
“The players have shown a lot of spirit, interest, and intensity, and that is the most important thing because, for me, you have to train how you play.
“It’s very important, and I am very happy with the work that the team have done over these two weeks.”
The Dutchman has also commented on the atypical pre-season enforced by the coronavirus pandemic.
“It’s tricky. It’s a short pre-season, and we only get four weeks before the opening game against Villarreal.
“It’s also more of an individual pre-season, as some players who have had more of a rest and others who have played games.
“We have to try to ensure that everybody is in top form before the opening game.
“Now, we have some friendlies and training sessions to get into good shape and face a tough LaLiga season.”
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