FC Barcelona: 6 Things We've Learned Already About Tito Vilanova's Takeover

The football world was surprised (although it was expected) when Pep Guardiola announced his resignation as manager of FC Barcelona. The surprise announcement of Guardiola's departure was a precursor for another one.

The surprise was Tito Vilanova replacing Pep Guardiola as the new manager of Barca. The purpose was to continue Guardiola's program of continual improvement of La Blaugrana.

The following slideshow will demonstrate what the world has learned about Vilanova in the short time he has been FC Barcelona manager.

An invitation is sent to B/R Readers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the slideshow.

6. Forgiveness

During the 2011 Spanish Super Cup match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Jose Mourinho infamously poked Tito Vilanova, who was at the time Guardiola's assistant, in the eye.

The 2012 Spanish Supercopa between the two La Liga giants was less tense than the previous year.

Speaking to Goal, Vilanova said that he had forgiven Mourinho for the eye poking incident—though refused to elaborate on the incident, preferring to concentrate on the current FC Barcelona season.

The two coaches are seen in this photo shaking hands after the 2012 Spanish Super Cup match.

5. Alex Song

Vilanova is not afraid to sign players from outside of La Blaugrana if it helps the club—demonstrated by the signing Alexandre Song from Arsenal.

Song is proving himself in his new team during the Spanish Super Cup matches against Real Madrid—and participated in the games against Osasuna and Valencia.

4. Cesc Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas and Cristian Tello will be given a chance by Tito Vilanova to start in La Blaugrana's match against Osasuna according to Goal.

The news puts an end to the rumors that appeared in Caughtoffside with a h/t to The Mirror and Marca that Vilanova was going to send Fabregas back to Arsenal.

3. Victor Valdes

Vilanova defends his players when it is warranted.

One notable example was his defense of Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes after conceding a goal late in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

2. Personality

According to The Guardian, there is a personality difference between Vilanova and his predecessor. It is the difference between calm leadership and one that is intense.

Sergio Busquets sums it up perfectly in a quote published in The Guardian: "He (Vilanova) is like Guardiola but calmer".

1. Continuation of the Status Quo

There has been no changes in the way FC Barcelona plays football since Vilanova took over.

This will come as no surprise, especially when he was chosen as Guardiola's successor for the continuity he provides.

Conclusion

I would like to thank you for the time spent in viewing the slideshow of FC Barcelona under Tito Vilanova. It is too early to tell how Vilanova's leadership will evolve in the long run.

The slideshow covered from the beginning of last summer to the present time.

My best wishes to all of you until the next time.