Internet Desk: It going to be another classic end to an era as FC Barcelona Manager Luis Enrique has announced that he will no longer be in charge of the Catalans after the end of the season, as he mentioned that he needs “rest”.
The 46 years old gaffer, in his third season as the Boss of Barcelona, declared his decision after a resounding 6-1 triumph over Sporting Gijon.
The Spaniard won the UEFA Champions League title and won the treble in his first season and clinched a domestic double the next season.
Unfortunately, Barca is on verge of an elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the last-16 first leg.
“It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think,” said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer.
“I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me. It’s been three unforgettable years.”
It is to see who takes the hot seat of one of the most precious jobs in world football after the ongoing season.
“It’s about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect.
“I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That’s the principle motive.
“The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around.”
Barca’s win over Sporting took them to the top of La Liga, one point clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand. They face Alaves in the Copa del Rey final on 27 May.
Former Spain midfielder Enrique featured for Barcelona between 1996 and his retirement from playing in 2004.
Former Barca coach Pep Guardiola paid tribute to his ex-Nou Camp team-mate.
“I have two reactions, as a supporter,” Guardiola said after his Manchester City side’s 5-1 FA Cup win over Huddersfield.
“I am sorry it is the club of my heart. I am so sad because we will miss the perfect trainer for Barcelona, from his personality and his character.
“His three years he played unbelievable football, with unbelievable players. I am like a fan with a membership of Barcelona. I can say thank you for all he has done in his three years at my club.”
Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu said: “Luis Enrique has brought us great success and he can still bring us more. The players are motivated to do it.
“We accept Luis Enrique’s decision. He has been a great coach. Now it is time to end his spell in the best possible way.”