La Liga: Valverde refuses to confirm Barcelona interest

Ernesto Valverde has refused to confirm that Barcelona want him to replace outgoing manager, Luis Enrique.

The 53-year-old will step down as Athletic Bilbao boos at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou.

However, when asked about the reported interest from Barca, he told a news conference on Wednesday: “I cannot confirm it, I’m sorry.”

Valverde however admits there are a lot of clubs keen on his services.

He continued: “There is a lot of speculation regarding my future but, I have to say it clearly, I haven’t committed myself to any team. I haven’t spoken to any club.

“I do have an agent, and there are clubs that are interested in me. But this is my club, it was my duty to first say farewell to it before I go and consider something else.

“This is not the first time I’ve had offers from big clubs, our president knows that. When I first came here I thought I would only remain for two years.

“Four years later, I’ve realised that I’ve spent double the time I thought I would. It’s a hard day for me [to leave], all that I’ve experienced here is incredible.

“But the decision to leave was taken a while back. I feel my work here is done. I think it’s good to have movement in football, for someone new to come along and have fresh ideas.”

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