Valverde: Present coaches have been influenced a lot by Cruyff FC Barcelona Spoke at an event paying homage to the Dutchman

Ernesto Valverde spoke of how Johan Cruyff's approach still has a very real presence among current coaches in an event to pay homage towards the late Dutch legend. The Barcelona coach was joined by Rubi and Eusebio the coaches of the other two Catalan clubs, Espanyol and Girona to discuss Cruyff's impact.

All agreed about Cruyff's enduring legacy. Valverde and Eusebio played under him and explained how they were surprised by the way he wanted the game to be played, how convinced he was with his ideas and how much he demanded in each training session.

"His influence wasn't only on changing the style of play and his importance can be seen on impacting coaches today, you recognise elements from him, playing inside, positional approach, the lines, possession and coordination etc," said Valverde.

"Having the ball means that you want to take the initiative, attack the rival and take charge.

"I remember the arrival of Johan to Barcelona because it shook things up so much, there were a lot of changes and he had an idea and a style. The first season was terrible, we were asking ourselves each day after the sessions."