Why did Rubiales sack Lopetegui?

In a decision that has caused an earthquake in the Spanish football world, just two days before 'La Roja' are to make their World Cup debut, Rubiales announced the sacking of manager Julen Lopetegui in a press conference on Wednesday.

The Spaniard said that he had found out that Lopetegui was to take over at Real Madrid less than 24 hours before the announcement was made public. Rubiales said: ''I do not feel betrayed. We are morally obliged to make this decision.''

The president of the RFEF added: ''We cannot find everything out just five minutes before. I am not saying that it is the best solution, but I believe there is a way that things should be done and I think this is the right decision.''

Rubiales concluded by issuing a warning to future candidates for the vacancy. He said: ''The national team is the team for all Spaniards and the coach, who is also an RFEF representative, cannot do things in this way.''