Ronald Koeman wants to make a culture shift at Barcelona.
After inheriting a team which got thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich, the Dutchman has had to face several issues coaching the side.
Now, the Blaugrana sit fifth in the table with their next game coming up against Eibar. Speaking about his primary task at hand, Koeman said, “I think in the end we have to play to win games and titles.
“There are no bonuses for finishing fourth, they’re given for finishing first. That’s the mentality that must exist here, we cannot settle for less.”
Barca’s financial difficulties are hardly a secret at this point and Koeman wants to guide the club through this difficult period with all expectations intact.
“Barcelona is still a team that must win, knowing we have made changes, but still aspiring to the maximum and demanding the maximum,” he added. “That was the mentality and we must continue with this mentality.”
The biggest controversy surrounding the club in recent times has been around Lionel Messi’s future. Koeman brought up his relationship with the Argentine as he said, “If he is fit to play, he plays.
“Leo is, of course, older than before but he’s still a player who likes to be there a lot and win games. He is enjoying every day in training and is very involved. As a coach, I talk to my players and I also talk to Leo about other things because he is the captain of the team. We discuss many things, not just the game.”
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