Luis Enrique’s adventure at the head of the Spanish team is over. The elimination by penalties against Morocco in the round of 16 of the World Cup in Qatar led to the departure of the coach, according to what the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) reported, which after firing the coach almost immediately confirmed to Luis De la Fuente as his successor.
“The sports management of the RFEF has transferred to the president a report in which it is determined that a new project for the Spanish soccer team should start, with the aim of continuing with the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique and his collaborators”, reported the Federation through a statement that was replicated by all the Spanish media.
According to what was reported by the entity, Luis Enrique received the official communication from the highest authorities of the Federation. “President Luis Rubiales and the sports director, José Francisco Molina, have transmitted the decision to the coach,” the RFEF said.
The now former coach of the Spanish team had made his World Cup debut with a 7-0 win against Costa Rica, but then drew with Germany (1-1) and lost to Japan 2-1 in the group stage. In the round of 16, Spain -one of the candidates- was eliminated at the hands of Morocco on penalties (3-0), after equalizing 0-0 in 90 minutes and in overtime.
After the elimination, Luis Enrique took over his responsibility. “If there is someone responsible, obviously it is me. I congratulate my players for how they have behaved and, in general, for the World Cup. We obviously left with a sad feeling, with disappointment, especially because of the support we have received and because we have not been able to return with the result that we wanted”, Luis Enrique had said after the match against the Moroccans.
Shortly after the announcement of the dismissal of Luis Enrique, the RFEF appointed Luis de la Fuente as the new coach, although it clarified that the board of directors must approve the appointment of Luis Enrique’s successor next Monday. If the appointment of Luis De la Fuente, until now U-21 coach, is approved, the new DT will debut in March 2023 in the qualifying phase for Euro 2024 in Germany and will lead their first two games against Norway and Scotland.
