Valverde rejects 18 months Barcelona salary

Barcelona's sacked coach, Ernesto Valverde, has reportedly refused to accept an eighteen-month salary from the club.

According to the Sun who quoted Mundo Deportivo, the ex-manager opted not to take the rest of the pay he was due in a classy gesture.

The Spaniard, who was replaced by ex-Betis coach, Quique Setien, became the first Barcelona boss to be sacked since Louis van Gaal 17 years ago.

Valverde – who played for Barca between 1988 and 1990 – released an emotional statement to his former supporters.

He wrote: “Dear Barca fans, my time as Barcelona coach has come to an end. It has been an intense two-and-a-half years right from the start.

“In that time I have enjoyed some joyful moments celebrating victories and trophies but also others that have been tough and difficult.

“However, above all I would like to highlight my experience with the fans and the affection showed towards me during my time as coach.

“I would like to thank the president Josep Maria Bartomeu and the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to coach the first team and their confidence during all this time.

“I would also like to thank all the people I have worked with at the club for their support and how they treated me during the two and a half seasons.

“Especially those who work in and around the first team and with whom I have shared so many moments at the Ciutat Esportiva and during away trips.”