According to the Brazilian, Setien does not fit the bill to remain as Barcelona coach. Rivaldo believes that the Catalans should have recruited a more internationally recognised figure on the touchline.

Citing the pointless substitution of Antoine Griezmann against Atletico Madrid in Barcelona’s last game, Rivaldo explained how Setien is far from capable of leading the Spanish champions.

He also shared his thoughts on the Messi situation, urging the Argentine to depart if it stays this way in Barcelona.

Also Read: Lionel Messi set to snub new Barcelona contract

“Setien has no qualifications,” says Barcelona great Rivaldo

Various publications have reported that Messi could be looking to end the final best years of his career elsewhere, as the situation at Barcelona continues to worsen.

The Barcelona skipper has been incredibly vocal this year in the media, as seen in his criticism of Eric Abidal earlier in February. Having faltered in the La Liga title race since the restart, Setien and Barcelona have not helped their case further.

Rivaldo believes that the hostile environment within the club coupled with poor transfer strategies and a poor form may have Messi reconsidering his immediate future at Barcelona.

The former Barcelona attacker said:

Adding that the Barcelona president is to blame for hiring an unqualified coach such as Setien, he remarked:

Clarifying with the example of Griezmann’s substitution in the 2-2 draw against Atleti, the former Barcelona man concluded:

Setien will most likely be relieved off his duties at the end of the season, or even earlier if Barcelona fail to close the gap on Real Madrid.

As for Messi, his contract expires at the end of next season. The board may have to sign a coach who is a better man-manager; someone who can reinstall the feel-good factor at the Camp Nou.

An away fixture against Villarreal will come as a real test for Barcelona’s resilience and character. The Blaugrana are four points adrift of Real Madrid in the La Liga summit, as Los Blancos close in on their first league title since 2017.

Lionel Messi and co will have to be at their brilliant best in the coming weeks if they are to stand any chance of retaining the La Liga title.

Also Read: Reports: Barcelona plotting audacious move to re-sign Manchester City’s Eric Garcia

0 votes