But those rather forced attempts to portray a happy camp were smashed to pieces by the loss to Valencia, and a summer of upheaval could lie around the corner - even if Valverde avoids the axe. Not least due to his telepathic understanding and close friendship with Messi, Suarez remains an integral part of Barca's attack. All these moves will require financing, and it is therefore hard to envisage Brazilian misfit Philippe Coutinho staying at the club. The club also boasts a trio of young players who look more than capable of stepping up into enhanced roles. In the wake of the Anfield shambles and the cup final loss to Valencia, though, such a bold move is exactly what many fans and media are calling for.

Source: Daily Nation May 26, 2019 11:59 UTC