Barcelona must start planning for the future, Rivaldo has said.
The Brazilian recently revealed that the Spanish club must start trying to sign long-term successors to Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
According to him, Barca badly needs a refresh as their big names are nearing the end of their career and are already needing replacements.
He added that players come and go while the club always stays, and this will continue to be the normal practice for years to come.
His words, “Luís Suarez is already 33 years old and his contract expires at the end of next season.
“He still has two or three seasons left playing at the highest level but it’s always healthy for the club to think about who will eventually replace him and even sign a new player if possible. The same applies to Messi.
“Squad renewal is part of football and many other great players who played at Barcelona have left at some point – me, Romario, Ronaldinho or [Diego] Maradona are some examples – because one day your age starts sending a message.
“The players come and go and the club stays, so you always must think in new players even if you’re satisfied with your current squad. It’s normal at any club in the world.”
On Setien, “Xavi seems to be the right manager to guide Barca through a period of change as he knows the club very well and will be able to work on developing the club’s youngsters.
“He had the chance to embrace that task before Barca contacted Setien, but the Spaniard decided he wasn’t ready to coach his beloved club. I believe he will change his mind soon and become Barcelona manager.
“I don’t know if it’s going to happen this summer or not but I believe it’s in his own hands to decide it as Barca’s board have already showed interest in him.”
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