Former Barcelona manager Quique Setien: ‘They took 3-4 years to pay me’ | OneFootball

Quique Setien’s short and turbulent spell at FC Barcelona continues to provoke debate, and the former Barça coach has now offered one of his most candid reflections yet. 

Speaking on Cadena SER’s programme El Larguero, he looked back on his time at the club, addressed the circumstances that shaped his tenure, and gave his verdict on the current project under Hansi Flick.

Setien, who took charge of Barcelona for 25 matches in 2020, made it clear that “I don’t regret going to Barça.” 

However, he was equally honest about the environment he walked into, explaining that the timing worked heavily against him. 

“I would have liked it to have been different, but I didn’t arrive at a time when the lads were excited, enthusiastic, and in good spirits… sadly, it was different.”

Understanding the story

The context is key to understanding his brief reign, which came to an abrupt end just three days after Barcelona’s infamous 2-8 defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League. 

Despite having a contract that ran until 2022, Setien was dismissed immediately, bringing a chaotic chapter to a close.

Looking at Barcelona today, Setien struck a far more positive tone. He did not hesitate to praise the work being done by Hansi Flick. 

Quique Setien has reflected on his time at Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“The players are the protagonists. I think Flick’s influence is very strong. He is a very demanding man and the squad has accepted his approach. 

“Although it may seem like a suicidal idea at times, he gives Barça much more than he takes away. 

“He is building a young team that will grow over time. I think it’s a very solid team and I like it.”

Legal issue with Barcelona

Setien also addressed the long-running legal dispute he had with Barcelona following his dismissal. 

The former Betis manager confirmed that the matter has finally been resolved, albeit after a lengthy wait. He revealed, 

“Everything has been resolved. Barça took 3-4 years to pay me, but they have now made all the payments they owed me and they no longer owe me anything.”

Beyond legal matters, Setien also spoke with pride about the upcoming Copa del Rey clash between Racing and Barcelona, stating, 

“Racing deserves it. What is happening at El Sardinero is extraordinary.”