Report: Koeman will not continue at Barcelona, Laporta looking for alternatives | OneFootball

Ronald Koeman’s time at Barcelona is set to come to an end.

Hired last year as a replacement for Quique Setien, the Dutchman, who was a revered figure among the Culers due to his heroics as a player at the club, has become persona non-grata now.

Questionable tactics, dodgy results, stubbornness in personnel selection have all seemingly contributed to what will be an imminent demise to a turbulent spell at Camp Nou.

Koeman’s job had been hanging by a thread for a while now, with his relationship with president Joan Laporta hitting the rocks. The meek defeat to Bayern Munich only served to nudge him towards the end, and it seems like the 1-1 draw against Granada on Monday has proven to be the final straw that broke the camel’s back.

Adios Koeman

As per reports from Goal, a decision has already been made on Koeman’s future – he will not continue as the manager of the Barcelona first team for much longer. However, the Catalan giants are willing to wait to make an official announcement until a proper replacement is acquired.

Furthermore, Barca have games coming thick and fast over the next couple of weeks. On Thursday they face Cadiz before taking on Levante over the weekend. Early next week a Champions League clash against Benfica awaits before a heavyweight clash against Atletico Madrid.

Given the relentless schedule, shaking things up in between could prove counterproductive. That is why Barcelona are prepared to wait for an opportune moment, likely the next international break in October, to swing the axe on Koeman’s tenure.

Photo via Imago

The report adds that recent cost-cutting measures and pay cuts for players have put Barcelona in a position wherein they can pay off the manager’s €12million severance package upon the termination of his contract.

Furthermore, replacements are also being lined up – not temporary, but with the long-term plan in mind. Club legend Xavi Hernandez is on the wishlist, along with Belgium national team manager Roberto Martinez, who is said to be at the top of the list of president Laporta. Two more unnamed coaches are being considered, the report adds.

So, while the announcement might be held back, the decision has been made. Unless there is a massive swing in the team’s performances between now and the international break, Barcelona will bid adieu to Koeman.

The hero of Wembley is set for an unceremonious exit after a torrid spell as manager.