Barcelona's execs admitted that they would take their time to decide what they would do with Ernesto Valverde. Now, the date when the tactician could live his final day as Blaugrana boss has been revealed.
With the Copa del Rey title yet to be played, Blaugrana boss Josep Maria Bartomeu has decided to keep things as they stand until May 25, the date when Los culés are set to face Valencia. One day after that match, Valverde's tenure as coach could come to an end.
A report by Marca suggests that Valverde could live his final days as boss no matter what happens on May 25, mainly because there is no faith in Valverde's capabilites to lead Barcelona to a UEFA Champions League title. Yes, he is close to winning a double with Barcelona again, but the continental title was a priority for this season, and the Blaugrana side crashed out of the competition in spectacular fashion for the second year in a row.
What makes matters worse is that Valverde is being held responsible for the outcome of that tie, since Liverpool dominated both legs "thanks" to his lack of adjustments on said matches. Furthermore, Marca states that those who supported Valverde from within Barcelona's presidency have had a change of heart, and that has also reflected on the team, since some of the leaders -such as Lionel Messi- don't trust his decisions anymore.
As of now, the idea of having Valverde around to live up to his contract (which expires in 2020) has not been discarded, but a number of resumes are being analyzed to take over. Ronald Koeman, Erik Ten Hag, and other top-caliber names are being considered, but no moves on that matter will take place until May 26, one day after the Copa del Rey final is played.
