When the charismatic and energetic former legend, Ronald Koeman, took over the Barcelona job last year, there were a lot of football fans who already knew that this was a mistake. While Koeman is undoubtedly one of the legends of the game and one of the most dynamic defenders to have ever played the game of football, when it comes to managing, his records are less than favorable. Still, the club and the fans backed him for a really long time but with his recent loss to the newly-promoted side, Rayo Vallecano, the board has finally decided to let him go.
This loss not only symbolizes the amount of work that needs to be done at Barcelona but also symbolizes a change in philosophy and beliefs. Koeman was never the right man for the job and even though he managed to win the Copa del Rey last season, the team as a whole unit was not consistent. They were also nowhere near the top elites of European football and this season, they have fallen down even more. Right now the club needs a fresh start and Koeman could not keep up with the new generation.
FC Barcelona has relieved Ronald Koeman of his duties as first team coach
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 27, 2021
So what is the plan going forward and who will be in the hot seat next? Well, the answer may lie in one of Barcelona’s best-ever players, Xavi Hernandez. Yes, for years, Catalan fans have been asking for Hernandez to take over the job however, the board was never convinced that the former legend had what it takes to manage a club like Barca.
While it is true that Xavi has not managed a European club yet, it might be time to take a gamble on this man. Apart from Xavi, Antonio Conte also seems like a great choice however, clubs like Newcastle United and Manchester United have already courted Conte so Xavi might be the best option at the moment.
Who do you want to see as Barca’s next manager?