Former Real Madrid Boss Lopetegui Appointed New Sevilla Manager

By Max Wise

Spanish La Liga side Sevilla have appointed former Real Madrid and Spain manager, Julen Lopetegui, as their new manager on a three-year deal.

The 52-year-old replaces Joaquin Caparros, who has been assigned a different role after taking charge in March on a deal until the end of the season.

Lopetegui spent two years in charge of the Spanish national team but was dismissed two days before their opening game at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia for signing a contract with Real Madrid without the knowledge of the Royal Spanish Football Federation.

Lopetegui’s spell at Real Madrid however, was short-lived as his reign at the-then European champions lasted just 10 league games with a record of four wins, four defeats and two draws.

Lopetegui was sacked by Real Madrid in late October 2018 after four-and-a-half-months in charge following a 5-1 loss to Barcelona in the El Classico.

Sevilla confirmed the news of Lopetegui's arrival in a post on their official website, writing: "Sevilla FC and Julen Lopetegui Argote have reached an agreement so that the coach born 53 years ago in the Gipuzkoa town of Asteasu will lead the Nervión club for the next three seasons.”

"The Basque coach arrives in Seville this Tuesday and will be presented on Wednesday morning."

Sevilla finished the Spanish La Liga season in sixth place, securing a place in next season’s Europa League but Lopetegui will be looking to guide them back into the Champions League.