Ronald Koeman defends struggling Barcelona winger Francisco Trincao

The coach believes it's never easy for a young player to get used to Barca's demands.

He insists the club keep counting on the 21-year-old winger.

"Francisco came from Braga, He’s young, just 21, and to make a step to a club like Barca is a huge step for any player from outside. We don’t have to rush these things," Ronald Koeman said in Wednesday's press conference.

"He’s working hard, trying to get minutes, I think he’s on the right path. He hasn’t played a lot recently but there’s a lot of competition. He’s a player we are counting on for the future of this club," the coach concluded.

The 21-year-old has managed just 1 assist in 22 games in all competitions since joining Barca for €31m last year. He has started only 4 times.