World Cup 2018: Spain boss Julen Lopetegui SACKED one day before tournament kick-off after taking Real Madrid job
Real Madrid yesterday announced that Lopetegui would become their new manager after tournament in Russia
SPAIN have sensationally sacked boss Julen Lopetegui just one day before the World Cup begins.
Real Madrid yesterday confirmed that Lopetegui would become their new manager after the tournament in Russia.
Spanish FA chief Luis Rubiales says he only found out Lopetegui, 51, was set to quit when he received a phone call just five minutes before Real's announcement.
Lopetegui's exit leaves La Roja in chaos just two days before their campaign gets under way with arguably the game of the group stage - a mouthwatering clash against neighbours Portugal.
Rubiales is furious Real's announcement has overshadowed Spain's preparations so close to the start of the tournament and admits he had no replacement lined up - before it was later announced that technical chief Fernando Hierro would take on the job.
Asked about who would lead Spain at the tournament, Rubiales admitted: "We don't know anything yet. The only thing I can say is that we will try to disrupt things as little a possible.
“I found out (Lopetegui was leaving) with one or two calls five minutes before the official announcement. We have been forced to make this decision, I do not go into how one or another club acts.
“Real Madrid are looking for a coach and is looking for the best, that is normal, I will not say anything about that.
“But while that coach is working for the Spanish Federation you can not do things this way.
“You have to have a clear message for all the workers inside the Football Federation that there is a way to act and behave.
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“I don’t feel cheated, the problem was the total lack of clarity with the Spanish Football Federation, that is something that cannot happen. Lopetegui is an impeccable professional but actions are important.