Spain coach Lopetegui sacked two days before World Cup

It is believed that Lopetegui was sacked after he accepted the Real Madrid job

Spain coach Lopetegui sacked two days before World Cup [File] Julen Lopetegui | AP

Two days before their opening World Cup match against Portugal, Spain sacked head coach Julen Lopetegui.

After Lopetegui signed with Real Madrid, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said it was decided that it was inappropriate for him to continue with Spain.

Multiple media reports on Wednesday said that RFEF president Luis Rubiales was so angry at Lopetegui's conduct that he was prepared to fire him immediately.

“We have been forced to dispense with the national coach. We wish him the greatest of luck,” said Rubiales. “The negotiations have occurred without any information to the Spanish FA and we were informed just five minutes before the press release. There’s a way to act that needs to be fulfilled.”

The Spanish Football Federation has not yet found a replacement for Lopetegui.

Lopetegui had renewed his contract last month as Spain coach until 2020. However, Lopetegui signed a three-year deal with Real Madrid on Tuesday taking up the spot that former manager Zinedine Zidane had left vacant last month. Zidane had announced his shock resignation as Real Madrid's coach five after their Champions League win.

Spain will face Portugal in their opening Group B match on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)