The reasons why Rafa Marquez extended Barcelona stay – and did not wait for Real Oviedo opportunity

On Tuesday, Barca Atletic announced that Rafa Marquez would be staying on as their manager, in a move that surprised many. The Mexican coach, who had previously been almost out of contract, appeared destined to move on after failing to lead the B team to Segunda promotion, losing out to Cordoba in last weekend’s play-off final.

Marquez has aspirations to manage in La Liga, although this move was one that would not have happened this summer. That, in turn, was one of his reasons for staying, as reported by Sport. Real Oviedo, owned by the Pachuca Group that Marquez is familiar with, wanted him as the replacement for Las Palmas-bound Luis Carrion, but he did not see himself managing in the Segunda – at least not with anyone else except Barca Atletic.

Furthermore, the love shown towards Marquez by his Barca Atletic players was another reason for his decision to stay. He had been asked by many to continue, as they also held him in very high regard.

Barcelona chiefs see Marquez as the idea man to lead Barca Atletic, as his management of the club’s young players – which includes preparing them for the first team – is considered as second to none. They will be very happy that he is staying on for another 12 months.