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The "Barcelona" club officially announced on Friday evening that they are parting ways with head coach Tito Vilanova, who, due to a prolonged illness, has decided to temporarily say goodbye to football.
This news came as a shock to the football world. Although the Catalan team did not plan to hold a press conference today, news of the upcoming conference quickly spread, leading to the cancellation of the evening training session.
Football fans wish Vilanova the best of luck (AP photo).
The team's president, Sandro Rosell, announced in front of all the players that T. Vilanova received medical results, which revealed that the coach can no longer continue his career.
Furthermore, S. Rosell publicly stated that the team will soon be looking for a new coach to replace the Spaniard.
It is worth mentioning that "blaugrana" canceled a friendly match with Gdansk's "Lechia" that was scheduled for July 20 (Saturday).
The illness that influenced the coach's decision
While "Barcelona" was coached by Josep Guardiola, Tito decided to undergo tonsil surgery. Since 2012, the Spaniard officially became the head coach of the Spanish champions, and in December of the same year, it was revealed that the coach had been diagnosed with parotid gland cancer.
Rosell and Zubizarreta announced the coach's decision (FCB photo). Last season, the 44-year-old coach spent a long time in the US, where he underwent chemotherapy treatment, and specialist Jordi Roura took over. However, towards the end of the season, the coach returned and continued to lead "Barca."
Yet, even before the start of the new season, Tito decided to dedicate more time to treatment, which is currently very important, and bid farewell to his coaching duties at "Barcelona."
Possible candidates to coach "Barca" next season
Marcelo Bielsa: The 57-year-old coach from Argentina, who last summer aimed to take over the coaching position at "Barcelona." M. Bielsa spent the last three seasons in the city of Bilbao, coaching the "Athletic" team. This summer, the Argentine became a free agent, so there is a possibility that the famous coach will lead "Barca" to victories next season.
Michael Laudrup: A promising and determined coach, leading the team of Swansea in England. M. Laudrup is familiar with the playing philosophy of "Barcelona," as the former player competed for the Catalan team. Last season, the coach managed to win the English cup with the "Swans," and did not mention any possible departure. Nevertheless, Barcelona's offer should entice the Dane.
Rubi: Joan Francescas Ferreras Sicilia, commonly known simply as "Rubi." Last season, the 43-year-old specialist coached "Girona" in the second division of Spain, but joined the coaching staff of "Barcelona" in June. The press immediately signaled that he is the main contender to take over the reins of the Catalan team, although S. Rosell has not yet confirmed this information.
