Barça coach Koeman beginning to change his opinion on Samuel Umtiti

A Samuel Umtiti 'miracle' is closer all the time. When his time at Barcelona seemed over, the French defender has found reasons for hope.

The 'last train' has set off but it's on track at the moment and, while it's still early, coach Ronald Koeman's message is completely different to what it was at the start of the season.

Koeman had been warned about the delicate nature of Umtiti's knee problems. The Dutchman was clear: he asked him not to return until he could help the team consistently. He imagined it would be difficult for that to happen.

But his stance has changed: he believes in the new version of Umtiti and has told him so. 'Big Sam' feels capable of turning the situation around and is more focused than ever in his daily work.

Koeman and his staff are happy with Umtiti's performances against Granada and Elche. It's true they were two comfortable games, but they were still impressed, especially in terms of bringing the ball out from the back at Elche. He took risks but didn't lose the ball. The sensations were good, although he still lacks match practice after so long out.

If Koeman turned to Umtiti through necessity at first -- Pique injured, Araujo and Lenglet playing too many minutes -- he's now changing his opinion.

Whenever asked about Umtiti recently, his feedback has been positive. Samuel is giving everything to turn things around and to stay at Camp Nou, which is what he's always wanted, even when Barça tried to move him on last summer.

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