In what can be termed an unprecedented move, Spain have decided to part ways with head coach Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the World Cup.
Julen Lopetegui was unveiled as the new coach of Real Madrid and was set to succeed Zinedine Zidane as the coach of the Los Blancos.
But many questioned the timing of the announcement, arguing that such an announcement could unsettle the La Roja who are presently in Russia for the world cup.
The Spanish Federation seemed to take this view too announcing that they had sacked Julen Lopetegui with immediate effect.
“We have decided to fire the national coach,” Spanish Football Federation president, Luis Rubiales, said. “What we have achieved in getting here is due in great part to him, and we must thank him and wish him luck.”
Rubiales said he was unimpressed with Real’s attitude, but that he had nothing but good things to say about Lopetegui.
He added: “I don’t feel betrayed. Lopetegui has done impeccable work. How all this has been done is something else.
“I have spoken with the players and I can guarantee they will do everything, along with the new coach, to take the team as far as possible.
“Real Madrid look for the best coach, that is fine by me. I have no opinion about how Real Madrid act. But the federation have an obligation to represent all Spaniards.
“I found out [about the deal with Madrid] five minutes beforehand and asked for nothing to be done, that I was getting a plane and coming here.
“But, after five minutes, I saw it in the press and we had to react. We have a responsibility. I know there will be criticism but the values of the RFEF are set by the RFEF itself.
“To win is very important, to have the best coach is very important, but above everything is acting in the right way. Maybe this is tough now, but in the end it will make us stronger.”
Spain sporting director Fernando Hierro and Under-21 coach Albert Celades have been tipped to take over for at least the World Cup.