Some further speculation on the Barcelona front.  I would like to address that current boss Frank Rijkaard is on his way out.  While that is not set into stone yet, all sources point to that direction.

Currently there are many favorites and possibly bosses for Barca.  However, I think two are the front-runners.

Josep “Pep” Guardiola is certainly capable and well liked at the Camp Nou.  He is currently coaching in the Barcelona system already at the level B and the Senior level.  I think since he is well liked and has played for Barcelona, the transition process will be easy with his hiring.  However, he does have a rather thin managerial resume which may take away from his chances.  All in all, being a fan favorite and former Barcelona family member, he should garner a lot of support.

Felipe Scolari is a well-traveled and very good manager.  He has a lot of experience having managed his first team in 1982 to now where he is coaching the Portugal National Team.  He will be leaving Portugal after the Euro 2008 as he states that “a coach is limited to 5 or 6 years.”  I would have to imagine that Barcelona is considering him as he has coached Portugal since ’03 and coached Brazil to a World Cup victory in ’02.  Very impressive, indeed.

I  think Barcelona and their supporters all have a lot to look forward to as the team is determined to succeed.