OFFICIAL: Spain have sacked manager Julen Lopetegui

The Spanish Football Federation have just confirmed they have sacked Julen Lopetegui as manager, just over 24 hours before the World Cup begins. Lopetegui had penned a new contract to 2020 just 21 days ago, but the lure of succeeding Zinedine Zidane proved too much, meaning he will not continue following the conclusion of Spain's involvement in the tournament. RFEF president Luis Rubiales was said to be "furious" and "deeply upset" after Los Blancos confirmed Lopetegui as their new boss. The premature announcement, it was feared, could unsettle the team unity, with the clear preference for the news to not be leaked until Spain's involvement had finished. Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales says they were "forced" into sacking Julen Lopetegui when he agreed to join Real Madrid without informing them. "It's the Spanish team. You can not do things this way," adds Rubiales. "I admire Julen a lot, I respect him a lot, I think he's a top trainer and that makes it more difficult to make the decision "I don't feel betrayed. Lopetegui, while he's been with us, has done impeccable work. "I know it's a very difficult situation. I know there's going to be criticism whatever I do. "I'm sure this will, in time, make us stronger."