LUIS ENRIQUE has revealed he dismissed former assistant Robert Moreno for “disloyalty” when returning as Spain boss.
Heading into a major tournament off the back of another controversy, La Roja welcome back Enrique following his time away during the illness and death of his young daughter.
Luis Enrique was re-presented as Spain coach on WednesdayCredit: AFP or licensors
The former Barca boss had left five months ago to care for his daughter Xana, who tragically died of bone cancerCredit: Alamy
Moreno, the former midfielder’s old No2, took charge in that period and guided the side to Euro 2020.
But Enrique is now back in the hotseat and rejected his old assistant’s desire to stay on as head coach.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, he stated: “I feel I need to explain a lot more than I’d have liked. The controversy is generated by a person who worked with me in my staff for a long time.
“The only person responsible for Robert Moreno not being in my staff now is me, nobody else. The disagreement comes from a meeting at my house on September 12.
“He told me that he wanted to do Euro 2020 and that he’d then make himself available as my No2.
“It didn’t surprise me. I understood it, because he is ambitious and this is a good thing.
Robert Moreno was said to be stunned by his dismissalCredit: AFP or licensors
“But he is disloyal and that is a major defect for me. I don’t want people like that on my staff. I told him I was feeling strong and motivated, but that he wouldn’t be on my team.
“We finished the meeting in a polite way. I phoned each member of my staff and asked for their opinion and that they didn’t relay my words.”
Luis Enrique was away for five months to care for his nine-year-old daughter Xana, who was suffering from bone cancer.
In his nine games, Moreno remained unbeaten and comfortably secured top spot of qualification Group F.
But the ex-Barcelona boss is reported to also believe there were fundamental differences in how to run the team.
Enrique nonetheless noted: “I had no doubts until the words said one thing and the actions said another.
“I am not the good guy in the film. But I’m not the bad guy either.”
Spain will find out their Euro 2020 rivals in Saturday’s draw with the host nation set to play three matches at Bilbao’s San Mames stadium.
Luis Rubiales confirms Luis Enrique return as Spain coach after daughter’s death
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
