Luis Enrique has announced that he will leave his position as manager of Barcelona at the end of the season.

Enrique shocked the football world during his post-match press conference on Wednesday.

‘During the pre-season, I had a meeting Albert Soler and Robert Fernández and I informed them that there was a chance of not renewing. They, on behalf of the Club, reassured me that there was no pressure. That moment has now arrived and I announce it to you,’ said Enrique.

The club’s website list his motives as ‘the way I have to live this profession with a relentless search for solutions and to improve the team. This means very little time to relax and disconnect. At the end of the season it would be good for me to rest.’

‘I would like to thank the club for placing its trust in me throughout my career, not just as a player but also as a coach. They were the first ones who thought I had the chance to coach the reserves, which I did for three years.

‘Later they decided I would be the coach for these three years, which for me will be unforgettable.’

The former midfielder will now seek to end his third season in charge of the club on a successful note with Barcelona chasing three different trophies to go with the eight they have won under Enrique’s guidance.

‘We have three exciting months left,’ he said. ‘Three months in all competitions. In one of them, of course, we are in a difficult situation, but, with everyone’s help, I am sure we will have an opportunity to turn it around.’