Hierro to replace Lopetegui as Spain manager

The Spanish FA have confirmed that Fernando Hierro will take charge of Spain for the duration of the World Cup following the sacking of Julen Lopetegui.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales confirmed on Tuesday that coach Lopetegui was relieved of his duties after he was announced as the new coach of Real Madrid.

READ: Spain sack Lopetegui after Madrid announcement

The shock decision was made just one day before the World Cup begins in Russia and just two days before Spain take on Portugal in their first game of the competition.

Rubiales stated that Lopetegui’s appointment as Real Madrid coach as the reason behind his dismissal. The president said that negotiations took place without the FA’s knowledge and they were only informed about the decision five minutes before Real Madrid’s press release was released.

According to the RFEF president, this was enough to release Lopetegui of his national duties.

The 50-year-old Hierro is Spain’s sporting director and his only managerial experience is a year in charge of Oviedo but he enjoyed a successful playing career.

Hierro spent 14 years at Real Madrid before a year in Saudi Arabia and Bolton, he also won 89 caps for his country.

Hierro will now be in the dugout on Friday when Spain open their Group B campaign against European champions Portugal on Friday, with kickoff at 8pm.