7 candidates likely to succeed Valverde at Barcelona

Ronald Koeman

Quoted as a “hero of Wembley” in 1992, Koeman being a former player, understands the Barca way more than anyone else. He has previously worked as an assistant trainer under former Blaugrana coach Louis van Gaal, making him one of the ideal candidates. Even Lionel Messi wants Koeman as the next manager.

The former player is currently coaching the Dutch national squad, who he helped achieve the runners up position at UEFA Nations league, losing 1-0 to Portugal. His contract with the national team runs until 2022 but many reports have linked him with a return to the Nou Camp as a revelation of a release clause revealed by Nico-Jan Hoogma (KNVB director) in October stated the possibility of his return. Koeman, however, rejected this idea as he is committed to his current endeavor.

García Pimienta

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barca are keen on removing Valverde immediately and the current Barca B coach, Xavi García Pimienta, has immerged as the likely short term replacement. Xavi has spent many years with the club, not only as a coach but also as a player, coming from the youth ranks of La Masia himself. He joined as a manager in 2006 and has coached at all the levels La Masia has to offer, making him an ideal replacement who knows what the club wants.

He is currently only linked as a temporary replacement but if he succeeds could become someone like Guardiola, as both the managers had no prior first-team managerial experience.