Ernesto Valverde leaves Barcelona with Class and Elegance

Ernesto Valverde wasn’t the most popular coach that Barcelona have appointed. Neither was he the most qualified. Hence why he was sacked and two-and-a-half-year into his contract.

You can’t be unpopular and not good enough at the same time if you want to hold on one of the biggest, if not the biggest, managerial job in world football.

Ernesto Valverde, A Man of Class

Though even his worst critics would agree, Ernesto Valverde was a man full of class. A pure gentleman.

For his time as the manager at the helm of Barcelona, he showed dignity and loyalty towards the club. And even on his exist, instead of making it ugly, Valverde left on a high.

Reports in Spain have suggested that the former Athletic Bilbao manager has told his agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, not to charge any salary for the year-and-half left on his contract.

It was reported that Valverde had a rather emotional goodbye from the Camp Nou. The Spanish tactician was a professional even through his last session.

But was full of emotions when he had to leave the place and people he has worked for over two years.

Not a Failure, Not a Success

Ernesto Valverde’s reign at Barcelona couldn’t be termed as a massive success. However, it couldn’t be seen as a failure too.

He won four major trophies at the Camp Nou with two League titles, one Copa del Rey and a Spanish Super Cup. 

Though his Barcelona career would always be eclipsed by the two embarrassing defeats he faced against Roma and Liverpool in two successive Champions League campaign.

However, Barcelona have moved on from him, appointing former Real Betis manager, Quique Setién, as their new head coach.

While Setien is left with the team sitting on the top of the table by Valverde, though with Real Madrid closing he has a tough job on his hands.

For Ernesto Valverde, he has won more fans with he left than he did when he was in charge at Camp Nou.

Valverde would be remembered by Barcelona faithfuls as a man who fell short of success not elegance.