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Ernesto Valverde out of his depth against Inter Milan in the Champions League

Within two minutes, Barcelona had ceded this match to their Italian opponents.

That’s all it took for Ernesto Valverde to have that hang dog expression which we know so well. The one that says ‘what the hell do I do now?’

What did he do? Absolutely nothing is the answer.

Stood stock still on the sideline, his incredibly passive demeanour was in stark contrast to Antonio Conte’s manic arm waving and constant instruction.

FC Barcelona v Internazionale - UEFA Champions League
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

It seems clear to me at this point that Valverde’s insouciance and complete inability to motivate his staff is a major factor in why performances this season, but particularly against Inter, have been so flat.