Ernesto Valverde: A Profile of the Spanish Football Manager

Early Life and Playing Career

Ernesto Valverde Tejedor was born on February 9, 1964, in Viandar de la Vera, Cáceres, Spain.

He began his playing career with local club Sestao Sport, before moving to Athletic Bilbao in 1988.

Valverde played as a forward and enjoyed a successful career, winning the Copa del Rey with Barcelona in 1990.

Managerial Career

After retiring as a player, Valverde began his managerial career with Athletic Bilbao's reserve team in 2002.

He led the team to promotion to the Segunda División in his first season.

In 2006, Valverde was appointed as manager of the senior team.

Espanyol

In 2008, Valverde left Athletic Bilbao to join Espanyol.

He led the club to the UEFA Cup final in 2007, where they lost to Sevilla.

In 2009, Valverde left Espanyol after a disappointing season.

Olympiakos

In 2009, Valverde was appointed as manager of Olympiakos.

He led the club to three consecutive Super League Greece titles.

In 2012, Valverde left Olympiakos after failing to qualify for the Champions League.

Valencia

In 2012, Valverde was appointed as manager of Valencia.

He led the club to a third-place finish in La Liga in his first season.

However, he was sacked in 2014 after a poor start to the following season.

Athletic Bilbao

In 2015, Valverde returned to Athletic Bilbao as manager.

He led the club to the Copa del Rey final in 2015 and 2017, and the Supercopa de España in 2015.

In 2017, Valverde left Athletic Bilbao to join FC Barcelona.

FC Barcelona

Valverde was appointed as manager of FC Barcelona on June 1, 2017.

He led the club to two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey title, and the Supercopa de España in his first two seasons.

In 2019, Valverde was sacked after a poor start to the season.

Managerial Style

Valverde is known for his pragmatic and defensive approach to management.

He often deploys a 4-4-2 formation, with a strong emphasis on defensive solidity.

He is also known for his ability to get the best out of young players.

Conclusion

Ernesto Valverde is one of the most successful Spanish football managers of his generation.

He has won trophies with a number of different clubs, and is known for his pragmatic and defensive approach to management.

He is sure to continue to be a successful manager for many years to come.