Story highlights Ernesto Valverde new Barcleona head coach

Takes over from Luis Enrique at Nou Camp

Valverde most recently in charge of Athletic Bilbao

(CNN) Barcelona has appointed former Athletic Bilbao, Valencia and Espanyol boss Ernesto Valverde as its new head coach.

He had been widely expected to take over at Barca from the departing Luis Enrique.

The 53-year-old played for Barcelona as a striker, scoring eight goals in 22 appearances between 1988 and 1990 under the guidance of the legendary Johan Cruyff

Valverde announced he would be leaving Athletic last week after four years in charge at the Basque club.

At a press conference, Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said the club had appointed Valverde for "many reasons."