Jordi Cruyff steps down as Barcelona's sporting director, ready to return to coaching

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Jordi Cruyff, son of the legendary Johan Cruyff, will conclude his tenure as Barcelona's sporting director by the end of this month, choosing to step aside for new opportunities. </p>

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After two years with the Catalan giants, the Dutchman's departure opens the door for former Barcelona and Portugal star Deco to potentially assume the position. </p>

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In an interview with The Athletic, Cruyff shed light on his decision to resign from his directorial role at the esteemed club, saying, "Barcelona contacted me during a particularly challenging time for the club. I was always going to answer that call; there's a special connection I have with this club. However, I had been coaching and relishing the experience for five years before joining Barcelona." </p>

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He continued, "I was in China, then I accepted the Ecuador job. Unfortunately, the outbreak of Covid-19 led to a halt in games. Subsequently, I returned to China. Everything was going well, but I chose to answer Barcelona's call and fulfilled that role for two years. </p>

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"Now, I have a desire to return to coaching, which is where I was before joining Barcelona. The club offered me a longer contract last year, but I opted for a shorter one as I knew I would eventually want to resume coaching." </p>

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Cruyff emphasized that his decision was not hasty, revealing, "I contemplated it for months. This is what I feel compelled to do now. It doesn't mean I no longer aspire to work as a sporting director; I am equipped for both roles. Yet, presently, I prefer the path of coaching. I have been carefully examining various options, selecting the one that resonates most with me." </p>

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Cruyff also disclosed that coaching offers came his way while he served at Barcelona and intends to take a hiatus to carefully consider the best move for his career. </p>

<p>The article <a href="https://www.planetsport.com/soccer/news/jordi-cruyff-steps-barcelonas-sporting-director-ready-to-return-to-coaching">Jordi Cruyff steps down as Barcelona's sporting director, ready to return to coaching </a> appeared first on Planetsport.com.</p>