Coach Ernesto Valverde 'se queda' at Barcelona until June

Ernesto Valverde is back in the eye of the storm after missing out on the first trophy of the season, the Spanish Supercopa, but drastic decisions are not on the club's mind at the moment. Barça are clear that he will continue at the helm despite the discontent among some sections of the support. They still back Valverde, though, and have confidence that he can achieve the club's objectives this season. There's concern about recent results, however, and there's a general feeling that his time will be up in June come what may.  

Barça -- above all president Josep Maria Bartomeu -- backed Valverde in June after the Champions League defeat to Liverpool and the Copa del Rey final defeat to Valencia. Alternatives were explored at the time, but it was decided that Valverde would continue for another year, convinced by his knowledge of the squad and his good management of the dressing room. 

Valverde worked on the confection of the squad for this season and has made important decisions, above all in terms of exits. He has a competitive squad but the performances have been inconsistent. However, Barça are still top of La Liga and safely through in the Champions League. The Supercopa KO has done damage but not as much as it could have because Barça actually played well. There was an improvement and the players are convinced they can kick on from now. There is still everything to play for the dressing room heavyweights have asked for unity with Valverde. 

The former Athletic Club coach renewed last season until June 2020 with the option for an additional year. His future must be decided in the coming weeks but the club are convinced he won't exercise the option to extend again. Now, both Barça and Valverde are beginning to realise the cycle is coming to an end and the best thing this summer is change. Bartomeu has never been party to drastic measures and would prefer a more measured end. While it's true other board members are angry with results and performances, there will be no twist for now. 

The decision is practically made, which is why alternatives are being sought out. But the club want to avoid noise so that Valverde can work in silence and end the season with success. The coach himself is aware of the rumours but takes them in his stride. The club value that because the pressure at Barça is huge. Now the focus is on improving on the pitch and continuing to play as they did against Atletico in Saudi Arabia.