Koeman could follow Luis Enrique's example with his changes at Barça

Koeman could follow Luis Enrique's example with his changes at Barça

Luis Enrique: ¿Ansu? No te voy a decir que no me ha sorprendido / | Sefutbol

Luis Enrique's blueprint for Spain should serve as inspiration for Koeman at Barça

Luis Enrique Martínez has shown Ronald Koeman what he must do at FC Barcelona to emulate the success he's had with Spain. The returning head coach has given the national side a much needed injection of youth. Spain lead their group in UEFA's Nations League and the path Luis Enrique has taken could be the same one Koeman goes down himself.

1 - Take a chance on the kids

Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Mikel Merino, Óscar Rodríguez, Reguilón and Eric Garcia all made their senior debuts over Spain's two most recent matches against Germany and Ukraine. He also handed chances to Dani Olmo and Fabián. Luis Enrique could have easily chosen more experienced names but he took a gamble on youth and it's paid off.

Koeman has plenty of young players who are desperate for a chance. Ansu Fati, of course, Riqui Puig, who starred for the U21 side, and many others at Barça B such as Monchu and Ilaix. And don't forget new signings Trincao and Pedri.

2 - High press

Barça have forgotten one of the factors that had so much success under Rijkaard, which was the high press. Winning the ball back in the opposition's half, overwhelm both flanks and moving the ball much quicker are elements which were lost under Valverde ad Quique Setién.

Luis Enrique has put a greater emphasis on this and the players have responded. Koeman, with his personality, could bring that back to Barça.

3 - Moving the ball quicker

Thiago, Busquets, Rodri, Dani Olmo and Fabián are central midfielders who constantly look to switch the play from one direction to the other. They find space and also pass to others who are in better positions.

Barça are overloaded with midfielders who can fulfil the same role, although this would require more movement from those further forward.

4 - Width

Gaya, who scored against Germany, and Reguilon against Ukraine, were spectacular down the left.  Carvajal and Navas didn't shine as much down the right but were still industrious. But the introduction of a natural winger like Ferran added so much to Spain's game. Pep Guardiola has a good eye for a signing. 

Koeman has full backs who love to get forward on the left, Alba and Junior, as well as a specialist winger in Dembele.

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