Ronald Koeman has been sacked as manager of Barcelona following a 1-0 loss against Rayo Vallecano. 

“FC Barcelona has relieved Ronald Koeman of his duties as first team coach. The president of the club, Joan Laporta, informed him of the decision after the defeat against Rayo Vallecano. Ronald Koeman will say goodbye to the squad on Thursday at the Ciutat Esportiva.  

“FC Barcelona wishes to thank him for his service to the Club and wishes him all the best in his professional career.” read the statement on the club’s website.

The club have also confirmed Sergi Barjuan will be the caretaker manager until they find a permanent replacement. 

Koeman was brought back to the club by then-president Bartomeu, whose resignation came on the same day as Koeman’s sacking, a year ago. It’s been a turbulent time for the club since and the Dutchman now leaves after weeks of speculation surrounding his job, a time during which he released a statement asking for patience. 

The 58-year-old wasn’t helped by the forced departure of star men Messi and Griezmann due the financial crisis, but recent defeat by rivals Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano means the club is sat in 9th place in the league, with 15 points after ten games played. 

In the Champions League, Barca are third in Group E, behind Bayern and Benfica, having won only one in three. 

Barcelona favourite Xavi, who is currently managing Qatari club Al Sadd, has long been linked to the job and is said to be one of the first names on the list of potential replacements.