Valverde is the coach we want, says Bartomeu

The president says it’s been a ‘magnificent season’

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has given manager Ernesto Valverde his backing and says he is the man the club want in charge of the Spanish champions.

Valverde’s position as manager has come under scrutiny after Barcelona’s humiliating Champions League exit but Bartomeu says he wants him to continue.

“The planning for next season is already underway, and has been for some time,” he said.

”Some players have already signed and we’ll keep having talks after the [Copa del Rey] final.

”Valverde said the other day that he has the support of the president and the board. He’s the coach we want.

“We’re halfway through a large project. He has a contract and we’re very happy with him. Now it’s about how the players recover from the enormous setback.”

Source | Marca

Bartomeu also said the Copa del Rey final “isn’t the deciding factor” on Valverde’s future and insists La Liga and the Champions League are the club’s main priorities.

His comments indicate the club have no intention of replacing their manager even if they do taste defeat to Valencia in the Copa del Rey final, while Valverde has previously said he has not considered quitting.

Source: barcablaugranes.com