The favorite to become the next manager at Barcelona is now clear. Ernesto Valverde has left Athletic Bilbao and looks to be on the verge of signing with the Catalan giants. The Spanish club announced the departure of the well-regarded manager on Wednesday.

Valverde, 53, played for Barcelona from 1998-90 and has managed six different teams in Europe - Bilbao, Valencia, Olympiacos, Villarreal, Espanyol and Bilbao's B team. 

According to Marca, Valverde said goodbye to players on Wednesday and spoke to the media, saying he had offers "from and important team" but that nothing had been decided. He added that he could not confirm Barcelona's reported interest. 

 As a manager, he won three league titles in Greece, two Greek Cups and the 2015 Spanish Super Cup, defeating Barcelona. 

Barca coach Luis Enrique announced he would be leaving the club at season's end.

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