AS says Rijkaard has informed his backroom staff that he is leaving the Nou Camp, despite his contract still having over 18 months to run.

Rijkaard told his coaches Johan Neeskens, Eusebio Sacristan and Juan Carlos Unzue that they should consider their futures as he doesn't see himself at the Nou Camp beyond the end of this season.

The Dutchman believes his relationship with president Joan Laporta and the board has become strained since last season's title collapse and also the receding influence he has on transfers has led to the coach concluding that his days are numbered.