Barcelona News: New Boss, Three Signings And One Departure Spark Summer Overhaul
Barcelona have begun their expected summer overhaul by replacing manager Gerardo Martino with Luis Enrique - while also completing the signing of keeper Marc Andre Ter Stegen and bringing Rafinha and Gerard Deulofeu back to the club.
And with Carles Puyol and Victor Valdes already set to leave the Camp Nou this summer the club have also confirmed they have decided to part ways with back-up goalkeeper José Manuel Pinto.
Following a disappointing campaign that ended without a single piece of silverware, Barcelona are planning a huge clear-out to re-establish their dominance both in Spain and in Europe – with the former Celta de Vigo boss appointed to replicate the recent success of Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola.
Enrique, who played both for Barcelona and Real Madrid, has signed a two-year contract at the Camp Nou after leading Celta to a successful ninth place in the 2013/14 season.
The new boss started his managerial career in 2008, taking over from Pep Guardiola as Barcelona's second team manager, guiding the side to promotion to the second division before spending a season at Roma.
What is expected to be a busy summer at the club got started shortly after confirmation of his appointment, as Barcelona announced the signing of goalkeeper Ter Stegen to replace Valdes.
Furthermore, Deulofeu and Rafinha will return to Barcelona after seasons on loan at Everton and Celta Vigo respectively. Both talents were crucial during Enrique's tenure as Barcelona B boss and he wants the pair to have a key role in his new adventure in charge of the first team.
Deulofeu started nine Premier League games for the Toffees in the past season, grabbing four assists and netting three goals while Rafinha has proven to be a sensation in La Liga scoring four goals in 27 starting appearances for Celta.
Meanwhile, Barcelona officially announced that 38-year-old Pinto will not have his contract renewed after six and a half seasons at the club.
And although they have already signed Ter Stegen another keeper is still expected to arrive and act as an understudy to the German youngster.
According to reports in Spain the club are also considering offloading stars such as Cesc Fabregas, Alexis Sanchez and Dani Alves.
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