An incandescent climate in Barcelona, with the future of Ronald Koeman on the blaugrana bench which, according to the Spanish press, now seems to be marked.

After the humiliating defeat to Benfica (3-0) in the Champions League, the Dutch manager has complained that he does not know if the club still has faith in him. Zero points after the first two European games, a not exciting start to the season in La Liga (three wins and as many draws in six games) and a tense relationship with president Laporta. Immediately called a night meeting, which lasted until four in the morning, in which the top management of the Blaugrana company took part.

The line was dictated: confidence in time, except for further surprises, to the former goalkeeper defender at least until next Saturday's match against Atletico Madrid. Then, the 15-day break for the Uefa Nations League will bring advice regarding the name of his successor.

Among the names on "pole" for the post Koeman, alongside Xavi Hernández and 'Bob' Martínez - although we cannot exclude the addition of other names at the last minute - is Andrea Pirlo.

The former Juventus coach would be, in this case, a personal bet by the president. As well as a risk, also because the situation of the Blaugrana in the post-Messi era does not give hope for an immediate turnaround in the results.

In the background is the shareholders' meeting on 17 October, when economic and social issues will be debated above all.

Koeman's expulsion would cost the Blaugrana coffers 12 million euros. Leaving little space in the first year, due to the salary cap, for the salaries of the new coach and his assistants.

(Unioneonline / vl)