For Valverde, The Supercopa De Espana Can Be A Recreation Event

JAKARTA - Ernesto Valverde has never felt calm sitting on the Barcelona bench. During the two and a half years leading Los Blaugrana, he was often criticized.

Barcelona's disappointing performances in the Champions League over the last two seasons is the main point of criticism on the coach. Moreover, their biggest rival, Real Madrid, won a European Cup hat-trick led by Zinedine Zidane.

In Spain, almost every month the names of potential replacements for Valverde are leaked. So, he will be very grateful to the Supercopa de Espana which is being held this week and hopes to find peace in Saudi Arabia

While coaching Los Blaugrana, Valverde won four trophies, two of which won La Liga Santander. But their demise at Roma and Liverpool in the Champions League is always remembered more than all of their domestic victories, and that is used as a weapon against him.

The Catalan club are currently at the top of the standings and they are leading the group stage of the Champions League. But Valverde remains insecure from criticism.

The 'silver' trophy in Saudi Arabia will probably provide stability for Valverde over the next few months, although much of the burden will be in the Champions League last 16 tie against Napoli.

Ververde knows the situation and he is prepared to take any risk with his professionalism and distinctive diplomatic style. He knew that rumors of coaches like Ronald Koeman, Arsene Wenger, Erik ten Hag and Marcelo Gallardo were only part of the show.

As additional information. The Supercopa de Espana previously marked the start of the new season and was held over two legs between the La Liga champions and the Copa del Rey winners. However, with the new format, now there will be four teams drawn from the top four of the La Liga standings last season.

Barcelona will face Atletico Madrid on January 9, after Real Madrid meet Valencia today. While the final party will be staged on January 12, 2020.