Spain great Xavi criticised the timing of Julen Lopetegui being announced as Real Madrid coach.
Lopetegui was stunningly sacked as Spain boss Wednesday, a day after it was revealed he would be Zinedine Zidane’s successor at Madrid.
Xavi, a 133-time Spain international, was unhappy with the timing of the announcement of Lopetegui’s Madrid move.
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‘I am not the person to talk about it [Lopetegui joining Madrid],’ the Barcelona great told Radio Marca.
‘It was not the most ideal or opportune moment.’
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Lopetegui’s sacking came just two days before Spain’s opening game against Portugal in Sochi.
But Xavi believes the nation, who will be led by Fernando Hierro, can still have a strong World Cup.
‘You never know, the players have already seen it all and sure, they can play a good role at the World Cup,’ he said.
READ MORE: Portugal vs Spain: Silva still wary despite Lopetegui departure
‘Leadership will not be missing, there is [Sergio] Ramos, [Gerard] Pique, [Andres] Iniesta.
‘There are very prepared people and a very good atmosphere. It’s not the best situation but at the same time, it unites them more and they give more of themselves, you never know.’