World Cup

Spain's players 'convince FA to keep Julen Lopetegui'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 13 June 2018

Spain's players reportedly intervene to prevent the country's football association from sacking manager Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the World Cup.

Spain's players have reportedly intervened to convince the country's football association not to sack manager Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the World Cup.

Speculation has been rife that Lopetegui could be fired just one day before this summer's tournament in Russia is due to get underway, having been confirmed as the new Real Madrid manager on Tuesday.

New Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales was understood to be furious with the way Lopetegui handled the situation, having reportedly only found out about Madrid's impending appointment five minutes before it was announced.

A press conference this morning is expected to clarify the 53-year-old's position, but Marca claims that the team's players have talked Rubiales out of sacking Lopetegui.

Spain and Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos reportedly led the protests in favour of his future manager, although official confirmation is yet to arrive confirming Spain's decision.

La Roja, who are among the favourites to go all the way and lift the trophy this summer, get their campaign underway against Iberian rivals Portugal on Friday evening.