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| FC Barcelona’s club president Joan Laporta announced Thursday Dutchman Ronald Koeman will continue as coach next season. (Reuters) |
"We've decided to give continuity to a contract already in place," Laporta confirmed after a meeting of the club's directors.
Koeman's confirmation comes after the Catalan press had
hinted that winning round Lionel Messi as well as lifting the Copa del Rey and
overseeing a year of transition may not have been enough for him to keep his
job.
Laporta explained: "We think it's the best for Barca and we are very happy to be able to announce today that Ronald Koeman is staying."
He said "very frank and straight" conversations
had taken place before committing to Koeman until the summer of 2022.
"This time for reflection was necessary... to see
together what didn't work at the end of last season".
Koeman remains in the Camp Nou dugout after a
"unanimous" vote despite Barca's last 16 Champions League exit to
Paris Saint-Germain and a disappointing end to the Liga title race.
Laporta praised Koeman's "impeccable behaviour".
"He showed what we already knew, that he is a true
professional.
"I'm sure we are going to have a great season."