Luis Enrique is reportedly a contender to replace Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone following his departure as Spain national team manager.
The 52-year-old was relieved of his duties on Thursday morning, less than 48 hours after La Roja suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat on penalties against Morocco in the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup.
Spain began their campaign in Qatar in emphatic fashion with a 7-0 victory against Costa Rica in their opening group-stage match, but they failed to win their next three matches at the tournament, including a 1-1 draw with Germany and a surprise 2-1 defeat against Japan.
The Spanish FA (RFEF) thanked Enrique for his service to the national team, but they are now keen to embark on "a new project" under Luis de la Fuente, who has been named as his successor.
Enrique has since posted an emotional farewell message after just over four years in charge of Spain, which read: "To all the employees of the RFEF with whom we share experiences and experiences of all kinds, thank you very much.
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"Of course, to the players who have been exemplary in their behaviour and faithful to the idea that I raised. I'm sorry I couldn't help you more. Also, to the assistants, doctors, physios, props, security as well as the team manager Nuria and the nutritionists, who all worked tirelessly to help the players and the staff in everything that we needed. It's been very special to be a part of this.
"Last but not least, to the fans who have uniformly transmitted their support at all times and especially when times have been hardest.
"It's time to say goodbye and in these cases just a little reflection. What the team needs is your SUPPORT in all its meaning so that Luis de la Fuente can achieve everything he proposes. Let's go SPAIN! Farewell. Thank you!"
It remains to be seen whether Enrique will take a break from management or thrust himself straight back into the mix for a vacant job in club football, but Spanish news outlet AS claims that the Gijon-born coach could replace Simeone at Atletico Madrid.
The report adds that Atletico have Enrique – formerly of Barcelona, Roma and Celta Vigo – on their shortlist should they decide to part ways with Simeone, who has been in charge of the La Liga giants since 2011.
Simeone's tenure at Wanda Metropolitano has come under scrutiny in recent months following their Champions League exit in the group stage, while they have also endured a frustrating 2022-23 La Liga campaign, currently sitting fifth in the table and 13 points behind Barcelona at the summit.
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Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin has talked up Enrique's qualities as a coach, suggesting that he has the "talent" to manage any club in La Liga.
"I really like [Enrique's] personally and professionally. I think he has the talent to coach any team in our League." Gil Marin told reporters 24 hours after Spain's elimination from the World Cup was confirmed.
"It is clear that he adds to everyone. For the media, for the players and for the clubs because he offers performance. I think he is good."
Spain and Atletico midfielder Koke has also commented on the prospect of Enrique replacing Simeone, adding: "Luis Enrique is a spectacular selector and coach. It's a different idea than what we have now at Atlético, but why not?"
Meanwhile, the report adds that Enrique could also be targeted by Manchester United should their form under current boss Erik ten Hag begin to decline.
During his three-year spell in charge of Barcelona, Enrique won two La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys and a Champions League, while he also guided Spain to the semi-finals of Euro 2020.
Oliver Thomas
