Next Barcelona manager: Lionel Messi approves Luis Enrique's successor
Posted Thursday, May 18, 2017 by Express.co.uk
Lionel Messi has reportedly approved Barcelona's expected appointment of Ernesto Valverde
BARCELONA star Lionel Messi has reportedly given the thumbs up to Ernesto Valverde's expected appointment as new manager.
Barcelona have been backed to make moves for the likes of Antonio Conte and Jurgen Klopp with Luis Enrique stepping down at the end of the season.
Enrique announced the decision back in March and club chiefs have intensified their efforts to secure a quick appointment over the last few months.
The former Spain international said he needed a break from the game after three seasons of success at the Nou Camp.
As a result, Athletic Bilbao coach Valverde has emerged as one of the frontrunners to take the job.
And Spanish outlet Don Balon say Messi has given the 53-year-old his seal of approval.
It is said that the Argentina international and other Barcelona players are excited with what he could achieve in the managerial hot seat.
An announcement will supposedly be made on May 29, after the Catalan giants' campaign comes to an end.
Sporting director Robert Fernandez will reportedly be the one to announce Valverde after a meeting with fellow club chiefs.
However, the Bilbao coach is unlikely to be managing the La Liga champions with Real Madrid primed to take that mantle.
Real took a giant step towards a first title since Jose Mourinho's time in charge with a 4-1 thumping of Celta Vigo.
Cristiano Ronaldo was at the double with Karim Benzema and Toni Kroos also getting on the scoresheet.
Real now just require a point against Malaga in their final league game on Sunday to be crowned champions of Spain.
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