Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman deserves to be kept on at the Nou Camp according to former Catalan star Rivaldo.
The Brazilian won the Ballon d’Or during his time in Spain and believes Koeman is beginning to build something.
He endured a difficult start to the season as he dealt with the possibility of Lionel Messi quitting the club.
That could still happen this summer, but Koeman has set about transitioning this Barcelona side and continues to nurture some of its young talent.
A Champions League exit shows how far the club have to go, but the likes of Ansu Fati and Pedri prove that the future is bright.
Despite their indifferent start to the campaign Barcelona remain in the La Liga title race and Koeman’s tactical versatility is proving to be a plus.
“It would be unfair to dismiss Ronald Koeman at the end of the season,” Rivaldo told Betfair. “So I’m happy with the news referring that he will stay.
“He is doing some very solid work during a tough moment for the club, so I think the least he deserves is to have more time to put it all together.
“He appears to have a good relationship with Messi and is also revealing some new young and talented players proving to be a pivotal piece of the ‘New Barcelona’ that seems to be under construction.
“His mark is also visible on the Spanish national team with the recent call up of Pedri and others could follow his steps.
“The confidence that Koeman installs in the youngsters is crucial and Luis Enrique is taking advantage by bringing them into the national teams.
“Another example of Koeman’s qualities was seen lately when he decided to change his playing system since the team wasn’t playing so well.
“And he actually found a very interesting 3-4-3 formation that allowed Barcelona to start playing some great football and more importantly, winning matches. It was brilliant the way they beat Real Sociedad last Sunday.
“To beat one of the best teams in La Liga away from home by 1-6 is impressive.”
