Vilanova's temporary departure led to the battlefield promotion of assistant manager Jordi Roura.

WSJ: Barcelona Has to Pick Itself Up

Roura's only head coaching experience before this had come at third-tier Hospitalet, where he lasted about half a season before being fired in 2007.

WSJ: Barcelona Has to Pick Itself Up

Vilanova, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, left deputy Jordi Roura in charge, but it made little difference as Barca continued its hot streak.

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