Ernesto Valverde officially replaces Luis Enrique as Barcelona manager

Barcelona have officially announced Ernesto Valverde as their new manager.

The 53-year-old, who stepped down after four seasons at Athletic Bilbao, replaces Luis Enrique ahead of the 2017/2018 season.

Barca in an official statement on Monday, confirmed Valverde has signed a two-year deal.

“I have spoken personally with Ernesto Valverde and I told him of our decision,” club president Josep Maria Bartomeu said.

“He said he is very excited and very happy, that it’s a great challenge to come in as head coach of Barca.

“There is time to talk about why we chose him. We know he has ability, his knowledge and his experience.

“He loves youth football and he has a special style, similar to what we do at Barca. He has philosophy similar to Barca’s and trains the way we like to train.”

Luis Enrique’s three-year tenure yielded nine trophies, including a third successive Copa as Barca beat Alaves 3-1 at the Vicente Calderon on Saturday night.

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