Fernando Hierro takes charge of Spain for 2018 World Cup

Fernando Hierro to lead Spain to 2018 World Cup

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has appointed Fernando Hierro as Spain head coach for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Hierro was appointed after Julen Lopetegui was sacked two days to Spain World Cup opener against Portugal

“Fernando Hierro to assume Spain Head Coach role for the Russia World Cup and will appear before the media alongside RFEF President, Luis Rubiales,” a statement on RFEF said.

“After which, he will direct the first training session and on Friday he’ll debut in Sochi in Spain’s first clash against Portugal.”

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“The RFEF calls the media at 6:30 pm (local time, 5:30pm CET) to the Krasnodar Stadium press conference room.”

Reacting to Lopetegui’s sack earlier today, Rubiales said, “I know it’s a very difficult situation. I know there’s going to be criticism whatever I do,” RFEF president Luis Rubiales said.

“I’m sure this will, in time, make us stronger. I admire Julen very much, I respect him very much. He seems a top trainer and that makes it harder to make the decision.

“You can’t do things this way, two or three days before the World Cup. We have been compelled to make this decision.”

Real Madrid announced on Tuesday that Lopetegui would succeed Zinedine Zidane at the Bernabeu on a three-year-deal.