Barca's Gala XI becoming increasingly defined for Koeman
The Dutchman's preferred team is finally taking shape at Camp Nou
Ronald Koeman’s Barca is still a work in progress but it is advancing. At least in terms of having a recognisable ‘gala’ XI. Until now he had been tinkering but Ousmane Dembele’s eruption has started to clear away the doubts. Koeman said after the Huescar win that the Frenchman is a likely starter, with his capacity to unbalance opponents crucial. The theoretical first XI comes down to just one doubt - Martin Braithwaite or Antoine Griezmann in attack.
In defence Clement Lenglet and Ronald Araujo are the central pairing, with Gerard Pique out. They are to be flanked by Alba and Dest. It will be hard for Sergi Roberto to win that place back.
Frenkie de Jong has taken a step forward in recent weeks, with he and Sergio Busquets leaving Miralem Pjanic on the bench.
Captain Leo Messi is a must and he has a growing connection with Pedri, with Ousmane Dembele the ideal complement. Coutinho is out of the picture. It’s Braithwaite or Griezmann to go with them. The Dane has the spot for now, until Ansu Fati is back.
Braithwaite only has one goal in seven in La Liga so Griezmann may get a chance ahead of him against Athletic Bilbao, but Koeman values his work and movement on the pitch and the space he generates.
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