Julen Lopetegui appointed Spain Boss

The Spanish Football Federation have announced that former FC Porto manager, Julen Lopetegui will take over the reins of Spain’s national team from Vicente Del Bosque, who quit after the defending champions were knocked out of Euro 2016 at the hands of perennial rivals Italy.

Lopetegui played 149 games in La Liga over 11 seasons as a goalkeeper, appearing in the competition for Real Madrid, Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano, besides representing Spain at the 1994 World Cup.

The 49-year-old Spaniard, who has been a free agent since his dismissal from FC Porto following a disappointing two year spell, was linked with a move to English side Wolverhampton Wanderers. He has had managerial stints at the international level, having previously worked as a manager for the Spanish Under-19s, Under-20s and Under-21s. Under his leadership, Spain conquered the Under-19 and Under-21 European Championships in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

Lopetegui would be formally unveiled later on Thursday, the 22nd of July, in Madrid, the Spanish Football Federation have confirmed.