Former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has offered a final goodbye to the club’s fans after being relieved of his duties on Monday.
Despite being out of contract in the summer, Valverde’s deal was terminated late on Monday evening, with former Real Betis manager Quique Setién brought in as his replacement.
It brought an end to a tumultuous two-and-a-half years for Valverde, who struggled to convince many supporters that he was the right man for the job. However, he took to the club’s official website to thank fans for their support.
“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,” he wrote.
“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.”
It was not just the supporters as Valverde also expressed his gratitude to every member of the Barcelona staff, including coaches and club officials.
“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,” he added.
“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.”
