Koeman: "Barça are the big favourites for LaLiga, the Champions League is another thing"

Former Barcelona player and head coach Ronald Koeman has said the Catalan giants are strong enough to win both LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League this season.

Hansi Flick's side, who have made an impressive start to the season in both competitions, held on to top spot in LaLiga by beating Atlético Madrid 2-1 before the international break. Barcelona have won 11 of their 12 league matches and, after 2010-11 and 2012-13, have begun a league season with six wins from six away from home for only the third time in the club's history.

The Catalan club have suffered only two defeats in all competitions this season, against Real Madrid in the league and Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. With 14 goals in four Champions League matches, Barça have also caught the eye with their attacking output.

Koeman acknowledged that winning in Europe is harder than retaining the league title, but stressed that he still sees his former team as favourites in both competitions.

Speaking at a charity event at Barcelona Golf Club, the Dutchman said: "There is no need to get nervous about the two defeats. You can lose against PSG. I see Barça as strong, they have a great team and a great coach. Barça are the big favourites for LaLiga, the Champions League is another thing. Then, in the knockout rounds, you can have a difficult night."

Koeman also praised Flick's style of play, saying: "Their way of playing gives the fans a lot." The Dutch coach noted that the high defensive line carries risk, that it can cause problems when there is no pressure on the ball, and that this was also seen in the match against Real Madrid.

After the international break, Barcelona will host Villarreal in LaLiga, before travelling to face Azerbaijani side Sabah in the Champions League.