Ronald Koeman came under pressure after losing the El Classico earlier this week. There was a buzz in Spain that the coach will be replaced if he fails to produce against Rayo Vallecano. The rumor came true after failing to win a rather easy La Liga fixture on Wednesday (October 27). Following the defeat, the club stated in an official statement that first-team coach Ronald Koeman has been fired after 14 months in command. Let’s take a look at the top candidates for Ronald Koeman’s replacement at FC Barcelona.
Ronald Koeman’s Potential Successors at FC Barcelona
Barcelona’s newly elected president Joan Laporta extended Koeman’s contract for another season earlier this summer despite his unimpressive style of play. However, he fell short in terms of decision-making. Under his leadership, Barcelona has only 15 points from ten La Liga games this season. His team also lost twice in the ongoing UEFA Champions League group stage.
The Barcelona board was increasingly frustrated with Koeman’s poor managerial performance, and his termination was on the cards after the defeat against arch-rival Real Madrid. Here are a few prospective Koeman replacements.
Jordi Cruyff
Jordi Cruyff, the son of former Barcelona legend Johan Cruyff, is one of the leading contenders for the position. He is quite knowledgeable about Blaugrana’s style. Because his father was the main architect of Barcelona’s famed tiki-taka style of play. Jordi understands exactly what Barcelona expect from him.
Jordi has previously held managerial positions with Maccabi Tel Aviv, Shenzen FC, and the Ecuadorian national team. Currently, he is serving as the sports advisor at Barcelona. It will not be a bad choice if the club names Jr. Cruyff as the next Barcelona first-team coach.
Antonio Conte
Italian coach Antonio Conte is the most well-known name on the market. He resigned as manager after winning Serie A with Inter Milan last season.
Conte has a particular vision and approach to the game. He has the capability to bring out the best in his players and can help Barcelona to regain its glory. One major issue is, Conte’s ideology may not be completely aligned with FC Barcelona’s. Barcelona might be considering him as an alternative for Koeman if they are unable to convince their other main targets.
Erik ten Hag
Erik ten Hag has made a name for himself as Ajax’s coach, thanks to his outstanding performances. He has been linked with every major European team. The styles of play of Ajax and Barcelona are identical. Both teams play total football, which was pioneered by the legendary Dutchman John Cruyff.
Therefore, Erik ten Hag would be an excellent replacement for Koeman. However, ten Hag should be satisfied that he can get the best out of the current Barcelona group after accepting the position.
Roberto Martinez
Barcelona are interested in current Belgium coach Roberto Martinez. Martinez has also worked with a number of English Premier League clubs. Though, he hasn’t had much success as a manager. Martinez has only one trophy to his name, which he won with Wigan Athletic in the 2013 FA Cup.
Martinez is a seasoned coach but he must adjust his style to the Barcelona style of play. Will he be a success if he is appointed as Barcelona’s head coach? According to reports, Roberto Martinez is one of the leading candidates to succeed Ronald Koeman at Barcelona.
Xavi Hernandez
A product of La Masia, Xavi Hernandez will definitely manage FC Barcelona in the future. Will the club appoint him right now? It’s a big decision to make because he has no prior experience in Europe. However, he did win his seventh title with Al Saad FC in Qatar recently.
Xavi is very much aware of the culture of Barcelona. He might be a huge hit at Camp Nou right away. Similarly, he has the potential to be a massive failure. Barcelona should give him a chance.
Verdict
Koeman’s tactical adjustments did not improve Barcelona’s performance on the field. Instead, they were always behind in big matches. Eventually, the FC Barcelona board of directors decided to let him go in order to find a suitable replacement.
Barcelona are looking for someone who is familiar with the club’s culture and structure. With this in mind, former Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez may be a fantastic match for the post. He is more informed about the club than any of the other potential suitors.
Besides, Roberto Martinez, Antonio Conte, Jordi Cruyff, and Eric ten Hag are all capable of providing stability to the Barcelona team. Regardless of who gets the job, he will have a significant challenge to improve the situation faster.
Source: United News of Bangladesh