BILBAO – Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said after the draw in San Mamés against Athletic Bilbao that it was “a great match” and highlighted above all “the attitude of the team” blaugrana. The coach did not get rid of the usual questioning he has been facing for a few weeks and once again addressed the absence of Lionel Messi in the team.
“I don’t always like to always talk about the same thing, but, of course, he’s the best player in the world. The opposite is probably more scary if he’s there or not. Also for ourselves. Because Messi doesn’t lose the ball. In the first half we lost balls and we couldn’t get the team up. It’s noticeable, but we know it can’t be changed, “he said.
Koeman analyzed what happened during the meeting in San Mamés.
“I think we were too complicated at the beginning and they pressed us a lot. We need to know how to play short from the goalkeeper and in the first 15 minutes we lacked calm, then we did better,” he said.
“They had more chances than us. During the game we have to highlight the attitude of the team, especially our reaction after their goal. We had chances to win, although the tie is just what I saw.” , added the technician.
“Athletic has a very good level, playing like this is a very complicated field. That’s why I can’t be unhappy with the team,” Koeman also commented before highlighting the performance of De Jong, of whom he said that ” his game has been important “.
“Especially in the second half. He’s a high-quality player who gives us a lot. Overall, he’s played a great game.”
Finally, he referred to Memphis, author of both of the tie in San Mamés. “He’s a great player, that’s why we signed him. It’s no surprise to me that in a short time he has shown his quality. He has scored a great goal. In general, he is adapted to our way of playing. It’s very important. because it has effectiveness, strength and speed up. “
“When you come to a team like Barcelona you have to have personality to prove your quality. The pressure is greater than elsewhere. He wears it well and is a perfect age to prove his quality with us,” said the Dutchman.