Koeman took charge of Barcelona earlier in the summer after the Blaugrana parted ways with Quique Setien. However, the Dutchman has struggled to get the La Liga giants firing on all cylinders regularly. Koeman has not been helped by an underwhelming summer transfer window and the doubts concerning Lionel Messi’s future either.
Speaking after Barcelona’s 3-2 victory against Athletic Bilbao, the Dutchman was full of praise for his skipper. Lionel Messi scored a brace on the night as the Catalans moved up to third in the La Liga table, and Koeman was delighted with the Argentinean’s performance.
Barcelona went behind early against Athletic Bilbao when Inaki Williams gave the home side the lead in the third minute. However, Pedri drew the visitors level 11 minutes later.
Lionel Messi found the back of the net on either side of the break to ensure the Catalans came away with three points. Athletic Bilbao reduced the deficit through Iker Munian in the final minutes of the game, but it was too late.
Lionel Messi involved in ten goals in his last ten games for Barcelona
Lionel Messi has 12 goals from 20 games this season and has been involved in ten goals in his last ten games for Barcelona, which includes eight goals and two assists. The Catalans will now be hoping their talismanic skipper can continue his good form because they are already playing catch up in the title race.
Barcelona moved to within seven points of Atletico Madrid after the win, though the Rojiblancos have played two games less. But with Lionel Messi getting closer to his best, it is unwise to write off the Catalans just yet.
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