Spain appoints ex-Barca coach, Luis Enrique

Spain’s football federation says former Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has been appointed to take charge of the national team.

He replaces Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked on the eve of the World Cup after accepting the job at Real Madrid, with taking temporary charge for the finals in Russia.

Luis Enrique has signed a two-year contract.

”The decision has been unanimous,” federation president Luis Rubiales said. ”I like his commitment. He has let better financial opportunities pass in order to be national team coach.

”This coach fulfills all the parameters to take charge of the team. Luis Enrique is bringing his backroom staff, but this is a matter he will speak about next week.”