Exclusive: Barcelona's search for a coach reaches its final stages
Expect the name to be announced at the end of the season, after the Copa del Rey final
Robert Fernandez has led the search and the decision will be taken by Bartomeu, Soler and Mestre
The hour of truth is drawing near. Two months ago Luis Enrique announced he was leaving at the end of the season and Barcelona have been searching for his replacement.
Sporting director Robert Fernandez had a clear idea of what he wanted and in May there will be an official announcement over the new coach. The machine is at work.
Barcelona want someone with the club's DNA, which has led Robert to discard several otheriwse solid options. In between 15-20 days from now, Robert will tell the club who he wants. Preisdent Bartomeu, vicepresident Mestre and director of professional sports Albert Soler will also be informed. They are the four people who will take the final decision.
Once the new coach is chosen, Barcelona will speak with him directly, meeting face to face. They will be important conversations over contractual details and sporting planning, eg ins and outs.
The process will culminate with signing of a deal and official announcement. Nothing will be made public until then and only when the season ends officially will Barcelona announce the deal. So the name of the new coach can be expected after the Copa del Rey final on May 27.
The decision will be unanimous between the four men and the coach will be given a two year deal, to show the club have full support in him.
