An inglorious exit from Barcelona is inevitable. For the first time in his career an unpleasant departure will not be mitigated by an upward step.So far, the 33-year-old has set the agenda for all his moves. Every transfer – Groningen to Ajax, onward to Liverpool and eventually to Barca – has been driven by the player. Options were always in place.This is different. Ronald Koeman told Suarez in a brutally short phone call that he was surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp. The Dutchman is ruthless. Koeman is also conscious of Barca’s history. When Pep Guardiola took charge of the club 12 years ago he immediately offloaded Ronaldinho and Deco. It was a bold stance that paid off handsomely.
Koeman is marking his territory in similar style, although unlike his predecessor he does not have a messiah in waiting. Guardiola could rely on a young Lionel Messi to vindicate his judgement. The new coach’s decision on Suarez has further alienated the mature Messi. The world’s best player is now ready to end his stay in Catalonia. The treatment of his good friend Suarez feels like a passive-aggressive gesture towards the Argentinian. Barca’s talisman is furious at the latest turn of events.
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