BREAKING NEWS Luis Enrique quits Barcelona: Players pay tribute and reveal plans for rest of the season

LUIS ENRIQUE has announced he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season.

By UCHE AMAKO

Enrique has won both La Liga and the Copa del Rey twice as well as the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup once each.

His contract at the Nou Camp expires in the summer and he had been reluctant to commit his future - until now.

The 4-0 Champions League humiliation to Paris Saint-Germain last month led to further doubts after a stuttering season.

But following a 6-1 win over Sporting Gijon this evening, Enrique announced he will leave after three years, despite the club moving into top spot.

"I won't be at Barcelona next season,” Enrique said. “I need to rest."

Midfielder Ivan Rakitic revealed Enrique let his players know before the public announcement.

He said: “First he [Luis Enrique] told the team about his decision. 

“We want to end the season successfully and enjoy what is left.”

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu added: "Luis Enrique has brought us great success and he can still bring us more.

The players are motivated to do it.

"We accept Luis Enrique's decision. He has been a great a coach. Now is it time to end his spell in the best possible way."

He also had an illustrious career as a player for the Catalans, making 300 appearances in eight seasons and winning six major honours.

Sevilla boss Jorge Sampaoli is favourite to take over while Ronald Koeman, former midfielder Xavi and Borussia Dortmund boss Thomas Tuchel are also in the running.

Source Express Sport