Julen Lopetegui has been sacked from his position as head coach of the Spanish national team just two days to the team’s first match against Portugal at Russia 2018 world cup. The development is coming due to his new deal with Real Madrid.
Reports have it that the Spanish football federation (RFEF) sacked the 51-year-old because his negotiation with Real Madrid occurred without him putting them on notice.
“I know it’s a very difficult situation. I know there’s going to be criticism whatever I do,” RFEF president Luis Rubiales said.
“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.”
Lupetegui replaces Zinedine Zidane at the Bernabeu after the French led the Spanish giants to a three consecutive UEFA Champions League success.
The Spanish giants announced Lopetegui signing on their official website on Tuesday. They said:
“Julen Lopetegui will be the coach of Real Madrid after the 2018 World Cup,”
“Real Madrid C. F. announces that Julen Lopetegui will be the coach of the first team during the next three seasons.
“Julen Lopetegui will join the club after the participation of the Spanish team in the World Cup, after two years of leading the national team.”
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