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World Cup 2018: Roberto Martinez shock contender to become new Spain gaffer after sacking of Julen Lopetegui

Belgium boss is on the shortlist to take over from Lopetegui after he was sensationally sacked just a day before the start of the tournament

Belgium’s Roberto Martinez is in contention to become the next manager of Spain, according to reports.

The former Everton gaffer is a shock candidate to become the long-term replacement for Julen Lopetegui, who was sensationally axed just a day before the start of the World Cup.

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez is being lined up to take over at Spain

AFP
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Belgium boss Roberto Martinez is being lined up to take over at Spain

Martinez has only just penned a two-year contract extension with the Belgian national side.

But that won’t deter the 2010 world champions to make their move, according to the Mirror.

A whole host of names are on the shortlist including Luis Enrique, Albert Celades and Zinedine Zidane.

The Spanish FA like the fact that Martinez is able to work with high-profile players such as Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne.


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Martinez could take over from Julen Lopetegui after he was axed just a day before the World Cup

AFP or licensors
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Martinez could take over from Julen Lopetegui after he was axed just a day before the World Cup

Julen Lopetegui was axed for tacking the vacant Real Madrid job

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Julen Lopetegui was axed for tacking the vacant Real Madrid job

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Martinez, 44, will be concentrating on seeing how far he can guide Belgium in the World Cup with optimism continuing to grow.

A win against Japan will mean they could face Brazil if the favourites manage to knock out Mexico.

His managerial credentials will be put to the test against the Samba boys.

Martinez may find the lure of returning to his homeland too hard to resist if they do make their move.


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Former defender Fernando Hierro has taken temporary charge of the Spanish team despite his lack of managerial experience.

They avoided a World Cup upset by narrowly taking top spot in their group and will now take on Russia in the round of 16.

A victory will mean they will play either Croatia or Denmark in the quarter-finals.


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