Barcelona has announced that Argentine Gerardo Martino will replace Tito Vilanova as the team's new coach.
According to ESPN, Martino is slated to sign a two-year contract with the club.
"FC Barcelona have reached an agreement to appoint Gerardo Martino as the new coach of the football team for the next two seasons. This agreement is pending the drafting and signing of the contract," a club statement read."In the coming hours [a programme will be planned for] his arrival in Barcelona, signing the contract and the subsequent presentation."
Martino hails from Rosario, Argentina, the same town where Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi grew up. Martino noted that Messi was supportive of bringing him to the club.
"I don't know the details of the situation, [but] I have no doubts that Messi spoke with the club directors. I'm sure that Jorge [Messi's father] and Leo have had some weight in this decision," Martino said.
Barcelona captain Carles Puyol was also happy at the prospect of seeing Martino join the team.
"I know Martino is a very good coach, who likes the style of the club," said Puyol.
The style is the key as Barcelona is known for its distinctive "tiki taka" passing game.
"I think the names that have been mentioned are capable of coaching this team. We all know that Zubi and the board are working hard, and we're sure they'll bring us the best coach," Puyol said. "We have a certain way of playing - a philosophy. The coach that comes in will follow that line, and I'm sure Zubi and the directors are looking for a coach who can adapt to our characteristics."
On Wednesday, Barcelona will face off against Bayern Munich, the club that embarrassed them 7-0 over two legs in the 2013 Champions league. Martino is expected to arrive in Barcelona on Wednesday but will miss the match.
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