Barcelona president Bartomeu calls emergency crisis meeting with Valverde’s position at risk

BARCELONA president Josep Maria Bartomeu has called an emergency crisis meeting - with boss Ernesto Valverde's position at risk.

The Spanish giants slipped to a shock 2-1 defeat in the Copa del Rey final against Valencia to add to their Champions League humiliation.

Barcelona may have won the La Liga crown under Valverde in 2018-19, but that was as much the failure of their rivals as their own success.

Real Madrid, for example, had easily their worst season in recent memory, finishing 19 points adrift of the Catalans.

But Saturday evening's 2-1 cup final loss against the Valencia may well be the final straw for Valverde.

Having taken a much undeserved 3-0 first-leg lead into their Champions League semi-final with Liverpool, Barcelona were still knocked out of the competition.

DISAPPOINTING SEASON

The Spaniards were thumped 4-0 by a ruthless Reds XI at Anfield - with their wait for another European title forced to continue.

Earlier this month, Bartomeu revealed Valverde would stay on, saying: “We’re halfway through a large project. He has a contract and we’re very happy with him.

"Now it’s about how the players recover from the enormous setback [in the Champions League].”

Bartomeu added: “The planning for next season is already underway, and has been for some time.

"Some players have already signed and we’ll keep having talks after the [Copa del Rey] final.

"Valverde said the other day that he has the support of the president and the board. He’s the coach we want."

But the surprise nature of their Copa del Rey capitulation may have forced a rethink at the Nou Camp.