Valverde out and Setien in for Barcelona

Barcelona on Monday night confirmed the departure of Ernesto Valverde after two-and-a-half years at the club. 

The Spaniard's failure to secure Super Cup success appeared to be the straw that broke the camel's back as the board took the decision to terminate his contract. 

"FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde have reached an agreement to terminate the contract that united both parties," a statement read on the club's official website. 

"The club publicly expresses its gratitude to Ernesto Valverde for his professionalism, his commitment, his dedication and his always positive treatment towards all that make up the Barca family. We wish him luck and success in the future." 

Xavi and Mauricio Pochettino were linked with the vacant Camp Nou post, but Barcelona acted swiftly to bring in Quique Setien as Valverde's successor. 

"FC Barcelona and Quique Setién have reached an agreement for the latter to become first team coach until 30 June 2022," a seperate statement read on Barcelona's official website. 

Valverde departs the Blaugrana having won LaLiga twice, the Copa Del Rey and the Supercopa de Espana once. 

Setien's first game in charge will be Sunday's welcome of Granada as Barcelona seek to retain top spot.