President Bartomeu: We spoke with a lot of coaches, we needed a boost
The president did admit that things didn't end as he would have liked with Valverde
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has defended the club's decision to sack Ernesto Valverde and appoint Quique Setien mid-season.
Bartomeu did admit that he regretted how things had played out over the last few days, with the club's pursuit of Xavi Hernandez and the eventual appointment of Setien all happening while Valverde was still in his job.
However, he claimed that Valverde was aware that they were approaching other managers and insisted it was time to change coach.
“We have known for a while that the team's dynamic and performances could be improved, even thought results have been very good,” Bartomeu said at Setien's presentation.
“Obviously, I would have liked things to happen differently. During recent weeks we have spoken with different managers, including Setien. Until now, nothing had been published, but, and I insist, I would have liked things to have happened differently.
“We'd spoken with Valverde many times. We are halfway through the season and we felt we needed a boost for what remains of the campaign. And, with that, we want to win La Liga, the Champions League and the Copa del Rey.
"I always backed Valverde, I like him as a coach, as a person, for the club. A year ago I personally backed him despite everything that was said and the petitions for him to be sacked.
"But, in recent weeks, the dynamic wasn't good. Eric (Abidal) and Ramon (Planes) spoke with him, he was in the loop about everything and we thought that it was best to make a change. And (with Setien) we start from a good point, top of the league. Valverde's written a goodbye letter today, showing the great person he is and the values he has. We're friends."
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