Spain opts for Lopetegui as Big Sam waits

“The RFEF has designated a new national coach – Julen Lopetegui”, read a statement released by the Spanish FA.

Del Bosque stepped down following Spain’s defeat to Italy at Euro 2016, a result that compounded a disappointing final two years of his spell in charge following their dismal showing at the 2014 World Cup.

As a manager, the 49-year-old has coached Rayo Vallecano, Real Madrid reserves and more notably Spain at Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 level.

He was dismissed by Porto in January and had been linked with English Championship side Wolves, who have been bought by a Chinese groupfor £45m.

“We are not going to throw away the many wonderful things this national team has given us”.

The former Porto manager has also played a big role in Spain’s underage development, holding coaching positions with the U17, U19, U20 and U21 national teams. In 2010, he took charge of Spain U19s, leading them to an U19 European Championship in 2012.

Del Bosque’s eight-year stint included World Cup and European Championship titles. Furthermore, Porto failed to win any trophy during his tenure in Porto (two years).

He told the Spanish radio station Radiogaceta Sports: “I have no intention to remain as coach”.

Lopetegui’s first task will be meeting the media at a news conference later on Thursday before turning his attention to a tricky 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign in which Spain face Liechtenstein, Italy, Albania, Israel and Macedonia in Group G.

“We worked together with the Under-21s and we always had a very close collaboration”.

“There is no better mirror to look at than that of Vicente del Bosque”, Lopetegui said.

“The coach needs everything”, he said.