Multiple sources – including Mundo Deportivo, Sport, Marca, and the very reliable Graham Hunter - are reporting that Gerardo “Tata” Martino is to be Barça’s new coach following Tito Vilanova’s resignation on Friday.
The decision was apparently between Luis Enrique and Martino, with sporting director Andoni Zubizaretta pushing for Martino. All sources agree that Martino will sign on for three seasons. Sport and MD add that Elvio Paolorroso and Jorge Pautasso, Martino’s physical trainer and assistant respectively, will also join. The official announcement could come as early as this evening.
Martino becomes the first South American coach in almost 30 years. The last one was the famed Argentine footballing philosopher, César Luís Menotti.
Martino, who became a fan favorite at local club Newell’s Old Boys in Rosario Argentina, left the club after being eliminated from the Copa Libertadores. He hails from the same town as Menotti, Marcelo Bielsa and Lionel Messi, who spoke highly of Martino.
Source: Mundo Deportivo, Sport, Marca
