Rivaldo, legend of FC Barcelona and Betfair ambassador, was very concerned about the image of the Barcelona team after losing LaLiga against Real Madrid. The Brazilian believes that the Champions League tie against Naples is in danger And he understands that the club should meditate on the continuity of Quique Setién before the great European event.
“There is a real danger of falling against Naples,” Rivaldo began his reflection. “As a former FC Barcelona player and Blaugrana fan, I am worried about that game and I think that most Catalans share that feeling. With Barcelona in the doldrums, with my spirits touched, without an audience and with the Italians launched, I think it will be very difficult, “he continued.
“Now the big issue that Barcelona has on the table is whether there should be a change of coach before the Champions League and, honestly, I think it is a headache for President Bartomeu,” said the Betfair ambassador. “I think the president should think about it. The fans and the press are disenchanted with Setién's work and his way of playing. And that reinforces the idea that you have to make a change now, “added Rivaldo.
“More than one person will see this period between LaLiga and the Champions League as a window to take advantage, promote change and turn the team around. But it is not easy. I would not like to be in Bartomeu's shoes“Said a Rivaldo who believes that Setién can only be saved precisely by the Champions. “If Setién does not win the Champions League, I don't think he is in a position to continue next season. Only winning the European Cup would allow fans to regain their confidence in him, “said the Betfair ambassador.
“Xavi would be the ideal substitute”
On who can be the next coach of FC Barcelona, Rivaldo pointed to Xavi Hernández. “It seems that would be the ideal substitute for a period of renewal and transition like this one, because he knows the club wonderfully and would surely manage the quarry like few others. It is true that he had the opportunity to accept the challenge before Setien's arrival, but he believed that it was not appropriate. Now you will surely change your criteria. It depends on him. I don't know if it will be this summer or laterbut it's up to you to decide, “added the Betfair ambassador.
“Barcelona should be looking for replacements for Messi and Suárez”
Regarding the debate on the advanced age of the FC Barcelona squad, Rivaldo sees no harm in the club looking for substitutes for some of its stars, such as Messi and Suárez, although they can still give several seasons of good play. “The two can continue at a good level for some timeAnd that would give the board room to look for spare parts. I think it is right to start thinking about the relay and even sign a new player if possible, as it seems to happen with Lautaro“said the Betfair ambassador.
“Braithwaite was a risky gamble”
And speaking of forwards, Rivaldo believes that the signing of Braithwaite by the injured Dembélé has proven to be a risky bet for FC Barcelona. “Signing a player out of the market for $ 18 million and then giving him so few opportunities It is something that many fans will not understand. If you chip someone with such urgency and for that money, it is because really later you are going to give them more opportunities to play. But if you don't let him really prove himself, you won't know if he can be a Barcelona player. Now with the possible arrival of Lautaro he will surely run out of space. Who knows, maybe at another club I will have the chance to show that it was worth for Barcelona “, the Betfair ambassador questioned.
“Courtois was right: it would have been unfair to give LaLiga to Barcelona”
Finally, the Betfair ambassador made it clear that Real Madrid is, in his opinion, a fair LaLiga winner. “With the return after the break they have been untreatable. And yes, it is true that Barcelona has punctured a lot, but even so I think they are fair winners. I remember when Courtois He said it would be unfair for LaLiga to be awarded to FC Barcelona if the tournament did not resume because Real Madrid was a better team. He was absolutely right. Look how they have turned that advantage around to get seven points from Barcelona now, “added the Brazilian.