Sacked Barcelona manager Valverde lets club keep his wages for final 18 months of contract in classy gesture
ERNESTO VALVERDE decided against claiming the rest of his Barcelona wages after his sacking - despite having 18 months left on his contract.
The Spaniard, 55, was let go on Monday despite the Catalan giants sitting top of the LaLiga table.
A run of one win in five matches proved to be fatal for him and he was axed - before being replaced by Quique Setien.
Things between Valverde and Barcelona ended on good terms after two-and-a-half years in charge.
And according to , the ex-manager opted not to take the rest of the pay he was due in a classy gesture.
Valverde's contract expired at the end of the 2020/21 season, making him 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.
Latest LaLiga news
"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."