Topics: Ernesto Valverde, Quique Setién, Barcelona, La Liga
The Spaniard was sacked by the Blaugrana and has been replaced by former Real Betis boss Quique Setién.

Ernesto Valverde has penned a farewell letter to Barcelona and the fans roughly 12 hours after his departure from the Camp Nou was confirmed.

The Spaniard had come under heavy criticism after yet another humiliating Champions League exit, losing 4-0 at Anfield to crash out of Europe in the semi-finals one year after the embarrassment in Rome. Despite this, the former Athletic Club boss kept his job but things did not improve this term.

The Blaugrana top the league but defensive frailties and poor away displays persisted, with the 3-2 loss against Atletico in the Supercopa de Espana semi-final appearing to be the last straw. The Catalan giants announced that they had parted ways with Valverde and appointed Quique Setién as his successor.

Ernesto might not have been popular with the fans as of late but the 55-year-old showed his class amid his sacking, penning a respectful farewell letter. As released on Barcelona’s official website, Valverde wrote:

“Dear Barca fans, my time as FC Barcelona coach has come to an end. It has been an intense two and a half years right from the start. In that time I have enjoyed some joyful moments celebrating victories and trophies but also others that have been tough and difficult. However, above all I would like to highlight my experience with the fans and the affection showed towards me during my time as coach.

“I would like to thank the president Josep Maria Bartomeu and the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to coach the first team and their confidence during all this time. I would also like to thank all the people I have worked with at the Club for their support and how they treated me during the two and a half seasons, especially those who work in and around the first team and with whom I have shared so many moments at the Ciutat Esportiva and during away trips. 

“Of course, I would like to thank the players for all their efforts that have allowed us to claim four trophies together. From this day, I wish them all the luck in the world and to the new coach Quique Setién also.

“All the best to everyone. Visca Barça and Visca Catalonia.”

Setien has already taken charge of the club and was photographed leading his first training session with Messi and Co. His first task will be to turn their form around for this year, having failed to win any of their two games in 2020.