Former Barcelona coach and Spain star Luis Enrique has been appointed as the new coach of the Spanish national team. Enrique took over the coaching duties from his former Real Madrid and Spain teammate Fernando Hierro who resigned a few days after Spain’s shocking elimination from the 2018 World Cup in the last 16. Along with his resignation, Hierro would also return to the Royal Spanish Football Federation as their sporting manager.
The 48-year old former Real Madrid and Barca midfielder hasn’t coached ever since leaving Barcelona last June.
Luis Rubiales, the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation had this to say, “The decision was unanimous. I like his commitment and he has turned down better-paid jobs in order to coach Spain. He’s a coach who has all the requirements the federation was looking for.”
Enrique has been into professional club coaching since 2008, 4 years after quitting playing. He coached Barcelona’s B Team, AS Roma and Celta Vigo before taking over the reins of Barcelona in 2014. Under his guidance, Barcelona won more than 3/4th of the matches they played. Enrique’s tenure at Barcelona saw him win numerous coaching accolades including being named FIFA World Coach of the Year in 2015.
Hence, given his coaching record, Enrique looks the right man for the job. His first match in charge of Spain will be against England at Wembley in the 2018-19 UEFA Nations League on September.
