‘Section of the club’s board’ keen on Everton summer swoop, need to convince fans

 

Ronald Koeman’s chances of being approached by Barcelona seem to be increasing. On Wednesday it was reported in Spain the Everton manager is now on a four man shortlist for the position.

Koeman is joined by Ernesto Valverde of Athletic Club Bilbao, Enrique’s Barcelona assistant Juan Carlos Unzué, and Eusebio Sacristán of Real Sociedad. One of the early front-runners Jorge Sampaoli is now only rarely mentioned as a possibility.

On Friday Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo explain that ‘sections of the club’s board’ are keen on Koeman, but they would have some convincing to do with the fans. Barcelona supporters hold Koeman in great regard, his goal brought them their first European Cup, but the worry is he’s seen more as a playing legend than a coach.

Earlier this month the same newspaper conducted a poll to see who Barcelona fans wanted as Luis Enrique’s replacement. Runaway favourite was Sampaoli with over 50%, and Koeman had just 2.5%. To put that into perspective, Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp got 20%.

Interestingly, back when the poll was conducted, Unzué wasn’t even an option. Enrique’s assistant has in recent days become a genuine top contender for the vacancy, with noises coming from Barcelona’s dressing room stating players have a lot of respect for the 49 year old.

Unzué would be free, his wages wouldn’t be colossal, and he’s unlikely to demand huge signings. The option is becoming increasingly real for Barcelona, which would be good news for Everton.