Ronald Koeman took charge of Barcelona for the first time in their 3-1 friendly win over Gimnastic on Saturday.

Koeman left the Dutch national team to take on his dream job with Barcelona this summer, and for the first time he stood in the dugout on Saturday.

They took on Gimnastic in their first pre-season friendly on Saturday with Lionel Messi in the starting line-up, and Frenkie de Jong on the bench.

Ousmane Dembélé gave Barcelona the lead before Antoine Griezmann made it 2-0 with a penalty. Gimnastic then pulled one back before the break.

De Jong then entered the pitch at half-time and Philippe Coutinho eventually made the score 3-1 with another penalty.

A good first victory for Koeman with Dembele, Griezmann and Coutinho all proving themselves to the new coach. De Jong was also able to play a full half in his preferred position as a controller.

Barcelona continue their pre-season against Girona next week before their La Liga season starts on the 27th against Villarreal.




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