Barcelona director Alemany confirms total change of mind


Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 11:59 PM• Jonathan van Haaster

Mateu Alemany has confirmed he will stay at Barcelona. Less than three weeks ago, the club announced in a statement that the director of professional football would leave, but this week several Spanish media reported that the director had changed his mind. Those reports appear to be correct, as Alemany put an end to all uncertainty before the home game against Real Sociedad (0-2) on Saturday. “After personal reflection, I’ve come to the conclusion that this is where I want to be.”

Alemany, who has a contract running until mid-2024 at the Spotify Camp Nou, was well on his way to becoming the new technical man at Premier League club Aston Villa. However, he changed his mind, forcing Villa to look for a new candidate. Opposite the Spanish branch of DAZN Alemany elaborates on his decision. “It is clear to me that I belong at Barcelona, ​​the best club in the world. I am fully committed to contributing to this project, which has taken a very important step forward.”

“Aston Villa has an impressive project and one of the best coaches in the world,” Alemany refers to Unai Emery, who would take over the technical management of the Birmingham club. “But after personal reflection, I have come to the conclusion that this is where I want to be. I hope that in the coming years we will continue to take the steps necessary to dominate European football again.”

There has been enough happening at the administrative level with the Catalans lately. For example, sporting director Jordi Cruijff indicated that he was ready for a new challenge. The Dutchman made this known in an ’emotional conversation’ with President Joan Laporta. Cruijff’s successor will most likely be Deco, who will have to work with Alemany in his new role. Deco wore the shirt of the brand new champion of Spain 161 times between 2004 and 2008.