Former Barcelona coach, Luis Enrique named as Spain’s new coach on Monday. Spanish Football Federation president, Luis Rubiales chose Enrique as the successor of Julen Loptegui.
Luis Enrique managed Spanish club, Barcelona from 2014 to 2017.
Loptegui was sacked just hours before the FIFA World Cup 2018 after Real Madrid named him the manager. The Federation have scheduled a media conference on Monday to announce changes to the organisation’s structure.
The 2010 champions were knocked out of the tournament by hosts Russia in the second round. They lost 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Enrique has played Sporting Gijon, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. He has won two Liga titles, one Champions League and three King’s Cups as Barca coach between 2014 and 2017.
Enrique also coached Celta Vigo, and Barca’s reserve team and had spent the past year on sabbatical since leaving the Nou Camp in May 2017. After Real Madrid announced Loptegui as their new manager, there was sparkling outrage between the Federation and Spanish fans. And, it was mainly due to the timing of the announcement.
Before sacking Loptegui, the federation said,
“We have been forced to dispense with the national coach. We wish you the greatest of luck. What you get…will have to do with the work you’ve developed.”
Lopetegui got appointed to the role in the wake of Spain’s poor showing at Euro 2016 in France. They got eliminated in the last 16, losing 2-0 to Italy. Rubiales also revealed the Spanish FA would receive the payment of the rescission clause.
Enrique has previously spoken of becoming the national head coach in the past, saying two years ago,
“Would I like to be coach of the national team? Yes, a lot.”
In the end, the dreams of Enrique has turned into reality.