After their disappointing World Cup campaign, Spain has finally put the rumors to rest by announcing their new manager. Confirming the reports, La Furia Roja unveiled Luis Enrique as the man to take charge of the national side.
The former Barcelona man was one of the favorites to take over the helm after the European giant crashed out of the World Cup. Having signed a two-year deal, he will now replace Fernando Hierro who lead Ramos and Co. during the tournament but did not stay on.
Despite being one of the favorites to win the title, the 2010 champion never hit top form in the group stages. Those struggles then carried on to the round of 16 where they were shocked by Russia and lost on penalties.
Enrique's appointment should bring an end to the managerial fiasco that saw Julen Lopetegui get sacked only 48 hours before their opening game against Portugal. The man who managed Spain during the qualifiers and built a solid squad was axed for after accepting the Real Madrid job without consent from the FA.
"The decision was unanimous. I like his commitment and he has turned down better-paid jobs in order to coach Spain," Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales said about their new appointment.
OFFICIAL | @LUISENRIQUE21, new @SeFutbol Head Coach#BienvenidoLuisEnrique pic.twitter.com/3KWNauF9WL
— Selección Española de Fútbol (@SeFutbol) July 9, 2018
"He's a coach who has all the requirements the federation was looking for."
La Roja will be looking to bounce back with their new boss. After leaving the Blaugrana last summer, Enrique was an available tactician who enjoyed success in La Liga during his Camp Nou spell.
The likes of Chelsea and Arsenal were linked with the Asturian tactician but nothing materialized. His next task will be to get the national side in top form in time for the upcoming UEFA Nations League.
