Pep Guardiola, Joan Laporta's impossible dream
Joan Laporta changed Barcelona’s history the day he appointed Pep Guardiola to replace Frank Rijkaard. Pep was a young coach with only a little experience at Barca B, and the decision of the president was a risky one. Very risky. But it went well. Very well. Guardiola, in four seasons, won 14 titles and became the best coach in the club’s history. The sextuple in 2009 was an unrepeatable success. In 1460 days in charge, Pep managed 247 games, won 179, drew 47 and lost only 21. 2.36 points per game on average. Laporta wants Pep back, but it seems an impossible dream. Those close to Pep say he won’t come back to Barca as a coach. It’s a challenge he’s already completed. He wants new challenges. Maybe even at international level. At Barca, he will only return as a general manager of football, for example.
Laporta is not giving up. He thinks he can convince Pep. That’s why he’s asked Koeman for a fortnight, to try and pull off his miracle. But if Pep says no, the Dutchman will continue. There is no exciting alternative. Koeman will stay on, weakened, hurt, but still here. Because sacking him will cost (up to 12 million euros). Laporta’s dream is turning into the Wembley hero’s nightmare.
