Just a day after agreeing to coach Real Madrid, Julen Lopetegui has been dismissed from his position as Spain’s national team coach. Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Federation, made this announcement during a press conference at Spain’s training base in Krasnodar, Russia, just two days before the team’s World Cup debut. The decision stemmed from Lopetegui’s unilateral acceptance of the Real Madrid offer without prior notice to his current employers at the Royal Spanish Football Federation.
Following Lopetegui’s departure, Fernando Hierro will assume the coaching duties for the ongoing tournament. Hierro, who serves as the national team’s sporting director, will officially confirm this during a press briefing.
The controversy unfolded while Rubiales was in Moscow for the World Cup 2026 host country selection. Upon learning of the situation, he promptly returned to Krasnodar for an emergency meeting with Lopetegui, culminating in the coach’s dismissal.
Rubiales emphasized the importance of transparency within the federation and expressed disappointment in being informed of Lopetegui’s departure only moments before a public announcement. He stressed the significance of the national team and the World Cup, underscoring the core values of the federation that he believes Lopetegui disregarded.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos advocated for Lopetegui to remain with the team for the tournament.
In a tweet, Ramos stated, “We are the national team, we represent the shield, the colors, the fans, and the country. The responsibility and obligation lie with us. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow: #Let’sGoSpain.”
According to sources, Lopetegui, a former goalkeeper for Madrid and Barcelona, may seek a significant salary increase, potentially tripling his current earnings through negotiations facilitated by his representative, Carlos Bucero, who collaborates closely with the prominent agent Jorge Mendes.
