Xavi backs federation's decision to fire Lopetegui

CAIRO – 13 June 2018: The 2010 World Cup winner, Xavi Hernandez, believes that the Spanish Federation President, Luis Rubiales’s decision to fire Julen Lopetegui was the right one, despite the crucial timing.

“I think that Rubiales has reacted very well; he looked out for the federation, which must always be above individuals, "Xavi told press.

Rubiales announced on Wednesday that former Spanish international, Fernando Hierro, will be Spain's national team manager at the World Cup.

Hierro will succeed the sacked manager, Julen Lopetegui, who was named Real Madrid's new manager only two days before the World Cup.

The timing of Real Madrid’s announcement angered Rubiales who decided to fire Lopetegui who has managed Spain since 2016 and led the team to the World Cup unbeaten.

Xavi praised Hierro, saying “Hierro is a good person to take over the national team and he will be very well prepared.”

Spanish fans are afraid of the impact of these big changes on their team that will play their first game against Portugal on Friday. However, Xavi believes in the players’ experience.

“For me, despite everything that has happened around this episode, Spain remains a strong candidate for the World Cup," added Xavi.

Spain plays in Group C at the World Cup alongside Portugal, Morocco and Iran.