FIFA World Cup 2018
Spain sacks Julen Lopetegui after taking Real Madrid job
Krasnodar, Russia – Spain sacks Julen Lopetegui just two days away from debuting in the World Cup against Portugal. Lopetegui was named the new Real Madrid boss on Tuesday on a three-year deal.
The Spanish football federation (RFEF) said it had dismissed the 51-year-old because the negotiation occurred “without any information to the RFEF“.
“I know it’s a very difficult situation. I know there’s going to be criticism whatever I do,” said RFEF president Luis Rubiales, who was told of Lopetegui’s new role five minutes before it was announced.
“I’m sure this will, in time, make us stronger. I admire Julen very much, I respect him very much. He seems a top trainer and that makes it harder to make the decision.
“You can’t do things this way, two or three days before the World Cup. We have been compelled to make this decision.”
The 51-year-old became Spain Manager in 2016 following Vicente del Bosque’s retirement. Since, Spain won 14 of 20 games with Lopetegui at the helm, while drawing six times.
Reports indicate Rubiales was upset at the announcement made by Real Madrid. The club gave the RFEF no time to react as it was made aware just minutes prior to the announcements.
The RFEF then posted their own reaction as they announced that Real would have to pay the €2 million release clause for Lopetegui. The now Real Madrid manager had just signed a contract extension on May 22.
Just an hour after, Spain announced that it would name Fernando Hierro as the new manager during the World Cup championship.
Spain will debut against Portugal in Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi. Perhaps it will be the hardest task for Spain as they are in Group B with Morocco and Iran.
