The Sunday’s game of Barcelona against Alavés meant much more to the Catalans, everyone was very aware of the result and, above all, of the image that the team could give. Nobody escapes that the future of Setién was in the air after losing the League against Madrid on the previous day and because of the subsequent words of Messi that pointed to the coach.
But everything went well for Setién and the team, favored by an Alavés that you could tell that nothing was at stake, but after all a good game and a forceful 5-0 with a double by Messi that ensures the Pichichi of the league. In addition to the conciliatory words of the Argentine in which he highlighted the commitment and the attitude of the team, also highlighting that all made self-criticism in the locker room give Setien a peace of mind until he plays the Champions on August 7.
The directive advocated the continuity of the coach after the meetings they held last week after the catastrophic game against Osasuna with Abidal, first, and then with the president. However, everything was pending the Alaves game as the final word. That must be the proof that the situation could be redirected and thus maintain confidence in the coach. Likewise in the offices several coaches offered themselves as a replacement if necessary.
Today Setién will continue to the Champions League. The directive considers that the situation is controlled after the meeting that the coach had with the players in which they were smoothed. Now comes a few days off when no action is planned. Its continuity for the next season is another story that will depend on how far it goes in the Champions League and how it gets there.