Ronald Koeman: Pressure exists for every team, not just for Barcelona

Ronald Koeman gave a press conference on Friday ahead of Barcelona's vital league game against Sevilla this weekend, although his appearance ended early due to a nose bleed.

After Saturday's La Liga game, Barça will face Sevilla again on Wednesday, albeit in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal, which they trail 2-0 from the first leg.

"They're two different games," Koeman said. "We want to win them both and keep out good run going in La Liga, picking up points and putting pressure on those above us."

However, the Dutch coach doesn't feel this week the most decisive of the season: "We're not the only team playing big games, there's pressure for everyone.

"It's not more for some than others. The pressure for the Barça coach is constant throughout the season. Being Barça coach means pressure. The coach is always responsible.

"I have spent a lot of years in this game trying to do the best possible. I never think about losing, I am an optimist."

Araujo back

Ronald Araujo is back in the squad for the game after three weeks out and Koeman says that means he could play.

"He's in the squad and everyone in the squad has a chance of playing. We will decide the team tomorrow morning, you'll see tomorrow if he plays or not," Koeman said.

"Ronald's had a really good season so far, a young defender who has learned a lot and has shown his quality and his physique.

"In the modern game, it's important to have players who are strong and quick. I have said he had to improve with the ball but he adds a lot in defence."

Step forward

Before the Elche win in midweek, Koeman said he wanted the experienced players to step forward, but he added some nuance to that on Friday.

"It's not just up to the senior players to step forward," Koeman added. "To give an example, Leo has scored 18 goals. The rest of the attackers, together, have more or less the same amount. He also needs help. 

"The responsibility has to be shared around. Yes, the older players have to help the younger players in the squad, but in general it's up to the whole team to step forward." 

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