Quique Setien has garnered intense speculation over his Barcelona future.
“I already said that if we carried on as we were, it wouldn’t be good enough in Europe. If we want to fight for the Champions League, we are going to need to change a lot.”- an irate Messi bellowed at Barcelona’s shortcomings as they surrendered their league title to arch-rivals Real Madrid.
The Catalan club, for past few seasons, has been subject to a steady decline and the signs suggested that a series of bold decisions need to be made before Barcelona reclaim their ascendency in Europe. Papering over the cracks is not an option, now.
Blaugrana supporters rejoiced at the news of Ernesto Valverde being relieved of his managerial duties. Expecting an upturn of fortunes under a tactician praised for aesthetic football, the Barca XI sustained their descending performance graph.
Real Madrid’s steady run of results coupled with Barca constantly dropping points ensured that Los Blancos’ journey to their 34th La Liga title was completed without breaking a sweat. To pile up the misery, current management at Camp Nou has failed to convince the players of their methods.
Barcelona have finished the 2019-20 La Liga season with 82 points, its lowest total since 2007-08 😳 pic.twitter.com/w1HO25JUUU
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 19, 2020
Currently having his job secure, Quique Setien has been allowed a chance to inspire the Azulgranas to reclaim their pride by a successful run in the Champions League. Though, it would be an uphill task for the coaching contingent to flush out the disharmony prevailing in the group.
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Despite the board’s recent faith in Setien, there are major question marks over his long term future, having signed a two-year contract with Barcelona. It’s understood that club insiders are monitoring options to build a foundation for protracted success.
On this note, let us look at three managerial options who could build a solid foundation for success at Barcelona.
#3 Erik ten Hag
Former Bayern Munich reserve coach is touted as one of the sharpest coaching minds in European football since his Ajax side managed a semi-final finish in the Champions League, 2018-19.
Devoid of a proper focal point in attack, a striker, the Dutch manager used Dusan Tadic as a false-nine with lethal results. Ten Hag, blessed with incredible talents of Frenkie De Jong and Matthijs De Ligt, imparted a flowing brand of football, often affiliated with Dutch sides.
Amid a lack of tactical uncertainty, Erik ten Hag could provide an identity to Barcelona’s attacking setup. Having previously formed a fluid system with Tadic alongside David Neres and Hakim Ziyech, the Dutchman could provide a spark to Antoine Griezmann and Ansu Fati with Messi pulling the strings.
Presence of Frenkie De Jong, orchestrator in-chief at Ajax under Ten Hag, could also be an enticing factor for board members to consider the appointment of the-50-year-old as Quique Setien’s successor.
#2 Ronald Koeman
Before Quique Setien was appointed as the head coach, former Blaugrana defender was approached of succeeding Ernesto Valverde at the helm. Though, Ronald Koeman’s commitment with the national team meant that he passed by the offer, for the time being.
However, with Euros postponed to next summer, the Netherlands head coach is uncertain of managing his country till that period.
"“I had a phone call [from Barca], as I’ve explained many times. But I want to keep my word with the national team, I thought we’d have Euro 2020 this summer,”“In my contract, there is a clause that will let me leave the national team job after the Euros but now’s not the time to be thinking about that. Everyone knows it’s my dream to coach Barca.” (quotes via Outlook India)"
Despite his questionable spell with Everton, Koeman has proved his tactical acumen elsewhere. In his latest assignment with the Holland national squad, the 57-year-old has elevated the side from failing to make it to the World Cup 2018 to one of the most exciting sides ahead of the continental tournament.
Given the previous connection with fans since his playing days, the Barca legend, in addition to his managerial skills, will demand respect and admiration from the dressing room. Also, Koeman’s familiarity with the Barcelona identity is an added bonus.
#1 Pep Guardiola
Blaugrana’s unprecedented success in the past decade was built on a solid core of players who sustained the elite standards with every passing season. Much of its credit lies on Pep Guardiola, who started the revolution in Catalonia.
Guardiola, former Barcelona player then helming the reserve side, was given the responsibility to build a dynasty capable of eclipsing Real Madrid in 2008. He performed his management duties with aplomb, thus building a side which reigned the footballing globe while executing an aesthetic brand of football- fondly remembered as Tiki-Taka.
The Catalan boss culled a number of superstars- namely Deco, Samuel Eto’o(in the second season), Gianluca Zambrotta, and Giovani Dos Santos. Guardiola entrusted his upcoming La Masia prospects to shine at the biggest stage.
Even to date, a few members of 2008-2012 squad- Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba, Lionel Messi, and Sergio Busquets- form a prominent part of Barcelona’s accolades. With Blaugranas seeking another rebuild, it wouldn’t be a ludicrous decision if the club insiders knock Pep Guardiola’s door once again, considering how currently things are for him at Man City.
Ongoing tensions among the Barca board members shouldn’t be an issue, given the modus operandi of ex-Azulgrana manager. Txiki Begiristain, who associates with background duties, has been a vital part of Guardiola’s success by ensuring astute recruitment strategies.
Who do you think will replace Quique Setien?