Rijkaard's Barca time is over

After a disappointing campaign that was summed up by a 4-1 thumping to La Liga champions Real Madrid on Wednesday evening, it has been revealed that Barcelona have parted ways with Dutch coach Frank Rijkaard.

The Dutchman will be remembered for leading Barcelona to a Champions League title after defeating Arsenal in Paris; Rijkaard also guided Barcelona to La Liga glory.

However, two successive seasons of playing second fiddle to Real Madrid appear to have seen the demise of Rijkaard, and now Pep Guardiola has been brought into take the Dutchman's place.

It is a sad day for the Dutchman, whose vision of attacking free-flowing football seemed to be lost in the midst of loss of confidence from his own players. Superstar Ronaldinho lost his way under Ronaldinho, whilst Samuel Eto'o and Deco both revealed they were not as happy anymore at the Catalan side. Even summer signing Thierry Henry had seemingly lost his way.

But, it seems political wranglings and instability have cost Frank Rijkaard his job. Unfortunately for Rijkaard, a successor was already lined up. Barcelona B boss Josep Guardiola has stepped up and taken control.