A victory that saves (for now) Ronald Koeman

A ‘saviour’ victory. A victory which gives oxygen. To Koeman, to the team, to Laporta, to the fans, to everyone connected to Barca. The triumph serves to calm the nerves after a week of high tension at Barca. The humiliating defeat by Bayern (more for the play than the result) was the start of the hostility between coach and president that was exacerbated by draws with Granada and Cadiz. A search for Koeman’s replacement began.

The relationship has deteriorated, because Laporta has never believed in Koeman as the leader of his new project. Victory against Levante is just a pause in this battle between box and bench. More decisive games are coming. This was a breath for everyone, but the reality has not changed. Laporta wants a new coach.

The Barca that beat Levante was very different. They scored two goals in the first 15 minutes. That allowed them to play calmer, without having to fight against the opponent, the scoreboard, the clock and their fears. Memphis and Luuk de Jong’s goals were a blessing, along with the great play of Nico, Gavi and Riqui Puig in the second half. And Ansu Fati returned after nearly a year out and he was received by Camp Nou as a hero. He helps fans have hope and dream. Then he scored. He’s magic.