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End of an era

Pep talk: Barca bosses plan for next season without Guardiola

With Pep Guardiola’s contract running out again this summer, the board at the Nou Camp are not counting any chickens.

Barcelona spokesman Toni Freixa has called for an end to speculation over Pep Guardiola’s future as coach.

Guardiola is out of contract at the end of the season and has requested time to reflect on whether to sign a new one-year deal with the club.

The 41-year-old has helped Barca to win 13 trophies since taking charge at Camp Nou in 2008, and Freixa has said the former Spain international’s request for an end to speculation should be respected.

“What Guardiola asks for is understandable and he should be allowed to work in peace,” Freixa told 8TV.

“It is normal for someone who has spent four years at the highest level to need to think about things like this.”

Freixa expressed his ‘full confidence’ in Guardiola and hailed him as ‘the best coach that Barca could have’.

The club spokesman also moved to assure fans Barca will not be left in disarray if Guardiola decides to leave his post.

“Guardiola, (sporting director) Andoni Zubizarreta and the rest of the team are already planning for next season,” Freixa said.

“The club will continue, with him or with another coach, and will remain the best team in the world. We do not have to worry about that.”

Guardiola spent a season in charge of Barca’s B team before assuming control of the senior side from Frank Rijkaard four years ago.

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