The unceremonious firing of ex-Spain coach Julen Lopetegui and the hiring of Fernando Hierro has caused a domino effect in the Spanish football association. This has led to former Kerala Blasters player, Carlos Marchena to take over Hierro’s former responsibilities.
Marchena, who was a part of the historic Spain side that won the World Cup in 2010, will act as the link between the players and the Spanish FA.
“I have the duties that Fernando had before and I’m trying to help so that everything works perfectly,” Marchena said.
Marchena, a former Valencia defender who has made more than 500 appearances at the club level, is a known figure among fans of the Indian Super League (ISL), as he was the marquee signing for the Kerala Blasters in the 2015 season. However, due to a pre-season injury, Marchena missed the majority of the season, playing in only one game, as the Blasters finished at the bottom of the table.
As one of Hierro’s right hand man, Marchena will hope for an improved performance from Spain, as they were held to a 3-3 draw by Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal at Sochi.