Spain’s world cup challenge might have been thrown into disarray as coach Julien Lopetegui has been sacked a mere 24 hours to the start of the tournament.
Lopetegui was announced as Real Madrid manager Tuesday, set to take over after the world cup but the manner of the appointment infuriated Spanish FA chiefs who decided to get rid of him.
His appointment has thus been terminated with immediate effect.
According to Spanish Football Association president, Luis Rubiales, Lopetegui’s negotiation to join Real Madrid was conducted in secret and they were informed only five minutes before it was made public.
Due to that, he said: “We have been forced to dispense with the national coach. We wish him the greatest of luck.”
Spain play their first game Friday evening against Portugal and are one of the clear favourites to lift the trophy.