Gerard Pique backs Ernesto Valverde to remain Barcelona boss next term

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has backed manager Ernesto Valverde to remain at the helm of things beyond the summer. The Spaniard’s future has recently come into speculation with reports indicating that he could mutually part ways with the Blaugrana when the current season comes to a close.

Amidst this, Pique has spoken glowingly about the progress made under Valverde and highlighted that the players would have no concerns, should the manager prolong his stay with the Catalan giants, he said: “It's a decision that he will make and we will respect because he is the coach. We would be delighted if he decided to continue and he is doing a magnificent job. He brings calmness and he is producing results and showing that his way works.”

Meanwhile,
“Barcelona returned from the winter break with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Getafe on the road “and the result sees them holding a five-point lead at the top of the table while being 10 ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid. When asked about the same, Pique indicated that the Madrid giants’ season cannot be considered a blow for the league while expressing his pleasure over Barcelona’s win following the winter break which has been a rarity over the years, he added: “I don't know if it's a major blow to La Liga, in terms of the points between us and the rivals. It's always good to come “back from the Christmas“ break with a win. I think it's years since we did it.”

Barcelona are currently five points ahead of second-placed Atletico Madrid on the table after the latter could only muster a stalemate against Sevilla over the weekend. Next up, the Catalans shift their interest to the Copa del Rey where they are scheduled to face Levante on the road in the round of 16 first leg.