Is Ernesto Valverde a Suitable Coach for Barcelona?

Optimism and Excitement for Valverde at Barcelona:

There is a sense of optimism and excitement surrounding Ernesto Valverde as he takes up the role of Barcelona's manager. Known as a pure tactician, Valverde has a proven track record in nurturing young talent and bringing out the best in his teams. His approach to managing player details is meticulous and he has shown maestro skills in coaching.

Valverde also has a significant connection with Basque players and players from the Basque region. At Bilbao, he managed to secure top-seven finishes in four seasons despite limited funds and strict region-based player restrictions. This indicates his ability to work within financial and geographical constraints, which is a valuable trait for a modern manager.

Transition Period and Valverde's Role

Barcelona is currently undergoing a transition. The team needs a manager who can adapt to the changing dynamics and integrate new strategies. According to many, appointing Ernesto Valverde was a safe choice. Valverde, as a former Barcelona player, brings a deep understanding of the club's traditions and values.

Valverde's experience under Johan Cruyff is particularly valuable. The Dutch master is the most important figure in Barcelona's history, and every player who worked under him describes the experience as transformative. Valverde's ability to adapt and think differently is crucial for a team facing an aging squad, especially with key players like Messi and Iniesta nearing the later stages of their careers.

Valverde's Coaching Abilities

Valverde's coaching abilities are well-documented. He is not only skilled in managing players but also adept at promoting young talent. At Bilbao, he had 18-19 players from the academy in his team, and he brought in Laporte and Yeray Alvarez from the Bilbao academy to the first team.

Furthermore, Valverde has a strong diplomatic approach to managing the media and players. His history with Basque players and the Basque region adds another layer of local expertise and support, which can be beneficial in uniting the team. His ability to handle negotiations with key players and manage team dynamics is already known to be effective.

Barcelona's Defence and Managerial Needs

The Barcelona defense has been a concern, and Valverde's experience at Athletico Bilbao where the team conceded only 39 goals in the top 7 in LaLiga this season, is a significant advantage. The team improved starkly from conceding 65 goals in the previous season, demonstrating Valverde's ability to effectively manage a defense.

Besides his defensive acumen, Valverde's history with the club and Basque region makes him a favorable choice. Many Barca fans and sports journalists would agree that Gore Sampaoli is the most suitable coach for Barcelona, but Valverde's diplomatic nature, understanding of offensive football, and experience with aging players make him a strong candidate.

In conclusion, Ernesto Valverde brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of Barcelona's culture, and the tactical acumen required to lead the team through this transition period. His ability to promote young talent, manage defensive struggles, and handle the challenges of an aging squad positions him as a valuable asset for Barcelona.