Luis Enrique will be leaving Barcelona at the end of this season, after a hugely successful stint with the Spanish giants. This means the search for his replacement is in full swing.
Several names have been linked with the soon-to-be vacant position. Arsene Wenger’s name has been mentioned, as well as fellow Premier League rivals Mauricio Pochettino and Ronald Koeman.
However, the two likely candidates are already in La Liga – Ernesto Valverde and Jorge Sampaoli. And it is the latter of the two managers that is the popular choice.
Unluckily for the Blaugrana, the former Chile national team boss is no longer an option. This is according to Catalunya Radio, which claims Sampaoli will remain onboard at Sevilla next season.
The Copa America-winning tactician is renowned for his attacking philosophy, an approach which has brought tangible benefit to Los Hispalenses. They currently occupy third spot in La Liga after a valiant push for the title, and crashed out of the Champions League knockout stage by a single goal.
It is thus no surprise why Sevilla wish to retain the Argentine boss for the upcoming campaign. The same can’t be said for Valverde, who recently admitted talks of a contract renewal at Athletic Bilbao have stopped.
The Spanish manager’s knowledge of the league puts him high up Barcelona’s list. Furthermore, the fact that Valverde played with Barcelona is an extra bonus.
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