Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu has handed Coach Ernesto Valverde a boost by saying the club ‘never doubted’ him.
Despite the Catalans winning a domestic double of La Liga and the Copa del Rey last term, Valverde came under some pressure after losing the Supercopa de Espana to Real Madrid and, more importantly, exiting the Champions League at the hands of Roma.
However, Bartomeu has moved to defend the 54-year-old and also spoke of the second leg disaster in Rome.
“We have never doubted Valverde because we knew a lot about him and also knew he would be Luis Enrique’s replacement when he told us he would not continue,” he told reporters.
“Valverde is an ideal Coach for Barca as he’s smart, can read games, and also change the dynamic of the team.
“The defeat by Roma didn’t just disappoint me, but all Cules, all the players, and particularly Ernesto himself.
“We wanted to break all records, but we got over it and kept on going to win the double.
“The season has been a nine out of 10, excellent, and I know people are thinking of next year, but we need to enjoy what we have won.”
