Ronald Koeman: Barcelona sack manager after defeat by Rayo Vallecano
Koeman leaves Barcelona ninth in La Liga after a miserable start to the season
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Barcelona have sacked manager Ronald Koeman after a 1-0 defeat by Rayo Vallecano left the club languishing in ninth in La Liga.
Pressure had been building on the beleaguered manager after a miserable start to the season was compounded by defeat against rivals Real Madrid last weekend.
Another flat performance proved the final straw for the 58-year-old, who was only appointed in August of last year, but has overseen a period of continuous turmoil, headlined by the departure of Lionel Messi in the summer.
A statement read: “FC Barcelona has relieved Ronald Koeman of his duties as first team coach. The president of the club, Joan Laporta, informed him of the decision after the defeat against Rayo Vallecano. Ronald Koeman will say goodbye to the squad on Thursday at the Ciutat Esportiva.
“FC Barcelona wishes to thank him for his service to the club and wishes him all the best in his professional career.”
Another club legend, Xavi Hernandez, is seen as the favourite to replace Koeman, while Marcelo Gallardo, the coach of River Plate in Argentina, and Belgium manager Roberto Martinez have also been mooted as candidates.
Koeman’s successor will have to contend with several problems on and off the field, though, with Barcelona struggling both domestically and in Europe while financial uncertainty rumbles on in the background.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments