Koeman dreams of managing Barcelona, Netherlands

Ronald Koeman is determined to lead Everton to Champions League football, but is unabashed about sharing the biggest goals of his managerial career.

"In my life as a professional coach, I have two dreams to fulfil. One, to coach my national team, Holland. I could have done it but my obligation to Everton prevented me," he revealed to Catalan newspaper Sport, according to BBC Sport. "My other wish, my other dream, is to one day coach Barca. That's the truth."

Koeman describes Barcelona as "where I grew up as a player and a person." Affectionately known as "Tintin," the Dutchman was a fan favourite at the Camp Nou, scoring 102 goals in 354 matches despite being deployed predominantly as a sweeper or defensive midfielder. It was there he made some of his earliest steps into management when, at the behest of Johan Cruyff, he mentored a young, aspiring player called Pep Guardiola.

"I feel flattered and I like that they think about me," Koeman said of the links to succeed Luis Enrique at Barcelona in the summer.

When asked what he'd do if Barcelona contacted him, he replied: "That's a hypothesis we cannot go into too much. In football, like in life, like in business, you can talk and discuss everything."

There is also an opening at the Netherlands following March's sacking of Danny Blind with a spot in the 2018 World Cup in severe jeopardy. Former national team boss Louis van Gaal is believed to be heading up the selection process for the next gaffer, and Arjen Robben has offered the services of himself and Wesley Sneijder to help in the recruitment drive.

Koeman would be a preferred candidate for a significant portion of Dutch football fans but, for now, the 54-year-old is focused on winding down the Toffees' season against Swansea City, Watford, and Arsenal before hitting the summer sales.

"We have a very powerful and exciting project and we're going to strengthen as best as possible to try and reach the Champions League next season," Koeman said.