It's been widely covered because Leo does not come out and make statements about the Club leadership and board. Until now. But Eric Abidal, former Barça player and current sporting director at Barcelona said in an interview that Valverde was fired because players weren't happy with him. Leo came out in instagram and said the board isn't taking responsibility for their decisions and that if you're gonna say it was the players, then name names. Because if not, then you're throwing them all under the bus.
It was widely reported that the big names in the dressing room were very supportive of Valverde. So Leo ain't having it.
It's a big deal for a few reasons. Leo has power. More power than he's every cared to flex. There will be a board election next year (possibly sooner), and Barça could (should) be getting a new president. If Leo makes it known that he doesn't support this board, or if he backs a candidate for president, that person will certainly win. Bartomeu has to go, and should already be gone. But if Leo makes it known he wants him gone, that's the end. The other thing is that Messi's contract expires next year. So obviously the Club, the members... everyone is going to want to make sure that he stays above all other things. If Bartomeu has to go for Leo to stay, Barto is gone. It seems like Abidal might be fired over this, but his comments aren't the root of this. Our incompetent board is the root of this.