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Barcelona Have Shortlisted Two Managers To Replace Ernesto Valverde After Champions League Exit

Barcelona Have Shortlisted Two Managers To Replace Ernesto Valverde After Champions League Exit

Following on from their disappointing Champions League exit, Barcelona are reportedly looking at two candidates to replace Ernesto Valverde.

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz

Ernesto Valverde's future remains uncertain at Barcelona after the Spanish club were knocked out of the Champions League at the hands of Liverpool.

The La Liga champions secured a 3-0 victory in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals at the Camp Nou, but Jürgen Klopp's men mounted an incredible comeback in the return leg at Anfield earlier this week.

While the 55-year-old Spanish head coach signed a one-year contract extension back in February, it would seem that the club are weighing up the possibility of replacing him in the summer.

Well, that's according to El Chiringuito's Josep Pedrerol, who reports that Ronald Koeman has emerged as one of the favourites to take over from Valverde.

The Netherlands head coach has a history with the club, having previously played for Barça as a player and also served as assistant manager under Louis van Gaal.

Should Barcelona fail to land the 56-year-old Dutchman, they would turn their attention towards Erik ten Hag.

The Ajax manager has had a superb season with the club, helping them to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League, challenging for the Eredivisie title and also capturing the KNVB Cup last week.

PA

Sport also reports that Barcelona legend Xavi, who has announced he will retire at the end of the season and who plans to enter into coaching, has been ruled out of the position after 'refusing to lead the club while the current directive is in command.'

Koeman's arrival would be welcomed at Barcelona, especially as he has worked with Ajax star Frenkie de Jong and club captain Matthijs de Ligt at international level.

De Jong will arrive at the Camp Nou in the summer after signing back in January, while his 19-year-old Ajax teammate has been heavily linked with a move to the club.

Should Barcelona replace Valverde in the summer?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Xavi, Football News, Football, Barcelona, Erik ten Hag, Eredivisie, Ajax, Ronald Koeman, Ernesto Valverde, La Liga, Barca, Camp Nou