Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino confirmed after Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Atlético Madrid, a result which saw the Blaugrana miss out on the Spanish title, what we have known for weeks, that he will not be the Barcelona coach next season.
“I want to announce that by mutual consent we cease to be Barça coaches,” said Martino, who was flanked by sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta in an emotional press conference. “I want to thank the club, the president [Josep Maria Bartomeu], [former president] Sandro Rosell and Zubizarreta. I’m sorry that we were unable to reach our objectives with the lads. I want to thank everyone who has supported us.”
He added: “Rather than talking about them as footballers, what I’ll always remember about the players is their human quality, something which can’t be bought. Barça have a great asset in them, because they’re truly admirable players. It was a source of pride to coach Barça. We admired the club from the outside, and now from the within. The club will achieve great things and enjoy great moments again.”
Martino, who arrived at Barcelona right in the middle of the pre-season as a replacement for Tito Vilanova, only lifted one trophy, the Spanish SuperCup in what has been a disappointing season for Barcelona as we never saw the energy and passing from them that we have seen in the past.
Barca are expected to turn to former player Luis Enrique, as they attempt to go back to hiring from within as they did with Pep Guardiola and Tito Vilanova. Barca need a major overhaul this season, with at least three if not four top players needed. Without them it will be difficult first season for Enrique.
