Luis Enrique has quit his role as manager of Spain following their humiliating World Cup exit.
The former Barcelona boss' contract was due to expire at the end of the year and he's already been replaced by now former Spain under-21 manager Luis de la Fuente. In a statement, the Spanish FA said: "The RFEF would like to thank Luis Enrique - and his coaching staff - for being in charge of the national team over the last few years."
During his stint, Enrique took five months out around the tragic death of his nine-year-old daughter, Xana. After returning to his post and guiding Spain to the semi-finals of Euro 2020, the 52-year-old was tipped to lead his nation to a deep run at the World Cup in Qatar. But on Tuesday, La Roja were dumped out at the round of 16 by underdogs Morocco on penalties following a one-sided 0-0 draw.
Spain missed three spot kicks in the subsequent shootout, as Enrique took the blame for their shock defeat and hinted at his departure in the aftermath. "Next week we will speak and discuss about my future, now it's not the right moment," he admitted. "I'm the one responsible."
On his team's performance, which was criticised for being easy on the eye but weak in front of goal, Enrique added: "I am more than happy with my team. They represented my theory and my style. I can only praise them. We tried to win. I cannot complain about Morocco. This was a beautiful game for children all over the world. Whether you like it or not this is football, this is life."
He went on to say: "Right now I'm looking forward to getting home to see my family and my dogs and be with them. I suppose that from next week, when the [RFEF] president [Luis Rubiales] considers it timely, we'll talk about what the future can bring. Right now that means nothing to me, because we need to assimilate this disappointment and deal with it in the best way."
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Enrique is now available for a job in club football, as he's still regarded as one of the best managers in the game. Having led Barcelona to a historic treble in 2015 to cap a marvellous his first season at the Camp Nou, he'll be a sought-after boss for a host of ambitious clubs.
Reportedly a candidate for the Manchester United job this summer had he been willing to leave his Spain post prior to the World Cup. Meanwhile, he's long been touted to be Pep Guardiola's successor when he eventually walks away from Manchester City, as he did at Barcelona. However, Guardiola's decision to sign new deal until 2025 last month means that Enrique could be waiting a while.
