SPORTS : BARCELONA SACK VALVERDE AND APPOINT SETIEN AS NEW HEAD COACH

Now it’s official! Barcelona have finally confirmed the sacking of Ernesto Valverde.

Valverde was in charge of Barcelona between 2017 and 2020. He won the domestic double on his debut season at the Camp Nou stadium. Another La Liga title, as well as the Supercopa de Espana, arrived in the following campaign.

However, Valverde was heavily criticised for two consecutive Champions League eliminations. The Catalans lost 3-0 to Roma away in 2018. The following season, they suffered the notorious 4-0 Liverpool defeat.

Valverde was sacked following Barca’s defeat in the Supercopa de Espana semi-finals against Atletico Madrid. The Catalans lost 3-2 even though they were leading 2-1 by the 80th minute.

Valverde took charge of 145 games at Barcelona. Here is his record:

• 145 games;
• 97 wins;
• 32 draws;
• 16 defeats;
• 67% winning rate;
• 4 trophies.

Finally, Barcelona have appointed a new coach following Ernesto Valverde’s dismissal. Former Real Betis’ manager Quique Setien will take over at the Camp Nou stadium, the club have confirmed.

Setien has signed a deal until 2022.

Setien has been reportedly chosen due to his coaching philosophy and Johan Cruyff’s values. His football is based on the famous ‘tiki-taka’ playing style which is strongly associated with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.

The 61-year-old worked at Betis between 2017 and 2019. The Verdiblancos finished sixth on his debut season in charge which was their best result since 2005.

During his illustrious career, Setien used to coach Racing Santander, Poli Ejido, Logrones, Lugo, Las Palmas and Betis.

As a player, Setien featured for Atletico Madrid, Racing Santander, Logrones and Levante. He spent 12 seasons at Racing and won the Supercopa de Espana with Atleti.

Source : Fc Barcelona