Koeman needs results NOW

We knew this year was going to be tough beforehand. And not just because of last season but because of the appointment of a coach that has wanted to make his mark from the start with a change of system and a clear bet on a meritocracy over the traditional hierarchy. 

Ronald Koeman has had to contend with crisis across the club and a complicated transfer market that left an incomplete squad. Proof of that is the fact that Barcelona only have two central defenders available for a decisive Champions League group stage game against Juventus on Wednesday. 

That means a certain number of slip-ups can be forgiven, but a moment will arrive when this Barça side must take a step forward even if it is a project under construction. In Turin, they have the chance to do that because it's a big game against a rival who also harbours hopes of going far in the Champions League -- even if neither Barça nor Juve are the favourites. Another loss would leave doubts about a team that needs some confidence. 

What Koeman has made clear in his first months in charge is that the reconstruction starts from the back. He's strengthened a team that was conceding too many goals, but this Barça lacks fluidity. 

Ansu Fati has found his place but other players, like Coutinho and Griezmann, are still lethargic. There's no doubt that everything will depend on Lionel Messi stepping up and making a difference. More than ever, the Argentine must lead a team that needs to find its path. If Messi starts making the difference, Barça will start to function. And Koeman needs results now.