Ernesto Valverde speaks for the first time since Barcelona sacking | OneFootball

Ernesto Valverde has written an open letter to Barcelona thanking the club and its fans for his two-and-a-half years.

Valverde was sacked late on Monday evening after a turbulent weekend where they lost to Atlético Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana and then reportedly approached Xavi as a potential successor.

That did not come to pass but the Blaugrana did eventually give Valverde his notice, replacing him with Quique Setien.

And now, just 12 hours after his departure, Valverde has spoken for the first time.

“My time as FC Barcelona coach has come to an end,” he said.

“It has been an intense two and a half years right from the start. In that time I have enjoyed some joyful moments celebrating victories and trophies but also others that have been tough and difficult.

“However, above all I would like to highlight my experience with the fans and the affection showed towards me during my time as coach.

“I would like to thank the president Josep Maria Bartomeu and the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to coach the first team and their confidence during all this time. I would also like to thank all the people I have worked with at the Club for their support and how they treated me during the two and a half seasons, especially those who work in and around the first team and with whom I have shared so many moments at the Ciutat Esportiva and during away trips.

“Of course, I would like to thank the players for all their efforts that have allowed us to claim four trophies together. From this day, I wish them all the luck in the world and to the new coach Quique Setién also.

All the best to everyone.”