Koeman talks about the tactical meetings with dressing room heavyweights

Coming off a disappointing 1-2 loss at home to Granada, Ronald Koeman has spoken with the intention to ease tensions and build confidence. Difficult moments such as these come and go in the season, and Koeman recently came under criticism for ‘poor in-game management’ by his own players, according to reports.

Taking tactics into account in his most recent discussion, Koeman spoke about his plans and how he communicates them with the dressing room heavyweights. The Dutch coach must still be confident in Barcelona’s chances of winning the league, which are, no doubt, slim, but definitely not over.

Koeman first spoke about his discussions with Lionel Messi, and the praise that the Argentine hands out for teammate Frenkie de Jong:

“During these conversations, I also involved Messi. Messi told Frenkie that he is a great player. He finds joy in players like Frenkie, because he wants to play with pure football players around him.

“When the three of us talk, Messi shares his opinion about Frenkie. He always tries to activate him, as Messi believes that Frenkie can reach the highest of levels. He thinks Frenkie is a very intelligent player.”

Koeman mentioned the importance of involving the team captains in his discussions. He spoke about how crucial they are both for their teammates as well as for the culture of the club:

“I also include Busquets, Piqué, and Sergi in the tactical meetings. The captains are the ones who protect the culture of Barça. When someone joins the club, he must adapt to the club’s culture. If he doesn’t want to adapt, he can leave.”

In preparation for a difficult game against Valencia, the Dutch coach must rally not only his captains but his whole team to put up a more valiant and coordinated performance than the one against Granada. Valencia are always a nagging rival, who never make life easy for the Catalans. Barça have only won one of their last five fixtures against Los Che, drawing two and losing two.

With their title hopes on the line, Barça can afford no more slip-ups. They must be at their very best against Valencia.